Gird Up! Podcast

Gird Up! Podcast

Exploring what it means to be a man of God.

  • 34 minutes 43 seconds
    1074 - Violating Conscience, Based Boyfriends, and Small-G gods

    Join Charlie Ungemach, Pastor Jacob Klug, and Vicar Ryan Halter as they explore biblical perspectives on gender roles, Christian living, and how to navigate modern societal challenges with faith. This episode offers deep insights into submission, leadership, and trusting God's design for our lives.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Light Banter

    03:40 Navigating Conscience and Work Ethics

    08:36 Practical Approaches to Addressing Ethical Dilemmas

    12:28 Understanding Conscience and Its Implications

    15:39 Viral Clip Discussion: Gender Roles and Submission

    27:17 The Importance of Preparedness in Conversations

    29:34 Finding Relief in God: A Reflection on Daily Life

    34:34 charlieungemach-outro (1).mp4

    Ryans’s Links:

    https://christalonewels.org/

    https://www.facebook.com/halterrc/?locale=fa_IR

    https://kplhs.org/

    Jacob's Links:

    https://mountainviewchurch.org

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

    https://open.spotify.com/episode/0t553CTKZiojRZttWuEnMh?si=c6fd897338b94f81

    Gird Up Links:

    https://youtube.com/@girdupministries4911?si=tbCa0SOiluVl8UFx

    https://www.instagram.com/girdup_be_a_man/

    https://www.girdupministries.com


    22 April 2026, 7:32 am
  • 1 hour 2 minutes
    1073 - Adam Koontz | A Primary Allegiance to Christ

    Join Charlie Ungemach in a compelling conversation with Pastor Adam Koontz as they explore the cultural shifts, generational changes, and the role of the church in today's complex world. Discover insights on faith, society, and how to navigate the challenges of modern life while staying rooted in Christ.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to the Conversation

    03:42 Navigating Young Christians' Challenges

    05:55 Understanding Political Allegiances

    11:41 The Importance of Primary Allegiance

    13:18 Generational Differences in Perspectives

    18:24 Consequences of Revolting Against Nature

    19:24 The Crisis of How to Be

    24:29 Interpersonal Dysfunction Across Generations

    27:46 Retention Issues in the Church

    30:37 The Evolving Political Landscape

    34:45 Navigating Faith in a Changing World

    39:53 The Role of the Church in Modern Society

    46:58 Communicating Faith Amidst Conflict

    53:53 Understanding Generational Differences in Conflict

    59:41 Embracing Love and Community in Faith

    01:02:49 charlieungemach-outro (1).mp4

    Dr. Koontz's Links:

    Redeemer Lutheran Church, Oakmont, PA: https://www.redeemer-oakmont.org/

    The Family Bible Commentary: https://www.adcrucem.com/products/five-volume-bible-commentary-adam-koontz

    Podcast - A Brief History of Power: https://abriefhistoryofpower.com/


    Gird Up Links:

    https://youtube.com/@girdupministries4911?si=tbCa0SOiluVl8UFx

    https://www.instagram.com/girdup_be_a_man/

    https://www.girdupministries.com


    19 April 2026, 6:52 pm
  • 29 minutes 19 seconds
    Episode 1072 - Ambition, Disharmony with Existence, and Powerful Thoughts

    How do we pursue excellence without making an idol of success? Pastors Jacob Klug and Ryan Halter join the show to dismantle cultural myths about wealth and masculinity. By applying the Law/Gospel distinction to our careers and bank accounts, we move past the "prosperity" trap and toward a life of genuine vocation. Learn why your identity is found in Christ’s finished work, not your net worth.

    Ryans’s Links:

    https://christalonewels.org/

    https://www.facebook.com/halterrc/?locale=fa_IR

    https://kplhs.org/

    Jacob's Links:

    https://mountainviewchurch.org

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

    https://open.spotify.com/episode/0t553CTKZiojRZttWuEnMh?si=c6fd897338b94f81

    Gird Up Links:

    https://youtube.com/@girdupministries4911?si=tbCa0SOiluVl8UFx

    https://www.instagram.com/girdup_be_a_man/

    https://www.girdupministries.com


    14 April 2026, 1:33 am
  • 1 hour 26 minutes
    1071 - Joshua Pauling | The Digital Age and The Christian

    In this episode, Joshua Pauling explores how technology subtly erodes our humanity and faith by promoting disembodiment and identity distortion. Discover strategies rooted in Scripture to live an intentional, embodied life that resists digital overload. Perfect for pastors, parents, and anyone overwhelmed by the digital age, this conversation offers hope and practical wisdom to reclaim your time, attention, and identity. Learn to set meaningful boundaries and foster real community, turning from the hyper-reality of screens to the sacramental reality of Christ’s grace. Join us to flourish as God's embodied creatures.

    Josh’s Links: 

    Book: Are We All Cyborgs Now - https://a.co/d/03FQYxsj

    Articles: Lutheran Witness - https://witness.lcms.org/author/josh-pauling/

    Articles: Modern Reformation - https://www.modernreformation.org/resources/authors/joshua-pauling

    Portfolio - https://muckrack.com/josh-pauling/portfolio/list?__cf_chl_tk=HoDVqY1ZNW3FZBbKTur4i5_K89M885krkxw9.JAxKs4-1774106564-1.0.1.1-6ZqqKfpox5O6B3q3PuZCOf46I6Vd6.l2KHChiIItnH8

    All Saints Lutheran Church - https://www.allsaintslutheran.org/

    All Saints Classical Academy - https://www.allsaintsclassicalacademy.org/

    Gird Up Links:

    Website - https://www.girdupministries.com/

    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/girdup_podcast/

    YouTube - https://youtube.com/@girdupministries4911?si=bJQOUakikV4aUbc9


    29 March 2026, 4:00 pm
  • 1 hour 25 minutes
    1070 - Naomi Schmidt | Gendered Ministry: Value and Pitfalls

    Naomi Schmidt shares insights on women's ministry, building relationships with pastors, and the importance of gendered ministry in the church. Discover practical ways to foster community, understand biblical perspectives, and support one another in faith.

    Naomi previously appeared on Gird Up to talk about Christian Womanhood on 11/5/2019 and Modern Feminism on 8/10/2021. 

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Women's Ministry and Naomi Schmidt

    05:21 The Journey into Women's Ministry

    10:52 Building Relationships with Pastors

    20:33 The Importance of Gendered Ministry

    40:46 Friendship Crisis and Church Relationships

    44:48 Building Relationships in Community

    51:32 Navigating Personal Connections and Self-Talk

    56:54 The Role of Gender in Church Dynamics

    01:02:56 Addressing the Feminization of Culture

    01:10:17 Celebrating the Beauty of Marriage

    01:18:04 Valuing Women in the Church Community

    01:23:24 charlieungemach-outro (1).mp4

    Naomi’s Links: 

    Biography - https://christintheword.wordpress.com/naomi/

    Philippians Bible Study - ​​https://a.co/d/0af3DPjl

    Ruth Bible Study - https://a.co/d/004dR9Jc

    When Jesus Visits Bible Study - https://a.co/d/06XtRmwq

    Proverbs 31 Bible Study - https://a.co/d/0ilkJIc8

    WELS Women’s Ministry - https://wels.net/serving-you/christian-life/womens-ministry/

    Gird Up Links:

    Website - https://www.girdupministries.com/

    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/girdup_podcast/

    YouTube - https://youtube.com/@girdupministries4911?si=bJQOUakikV4aUbc9


    22 March 2026, 4:00 pm
  • 1 hour 38 minutes
    1069 - St. Patrick’s Day BroCast | Irish Blessings, St. Paddy’s Legends and Traditions

    Caleb, Connor, Cameron, and Charlie talk about Vicar year, then unpack the real meaning behind Irish legends, the significance of the Trinity in Irish prayer, and the humorous yet meaningful stories that make St. Patrick’s Day more than just a party. You'll discover how the ancient prayer of the armor of God can equip us today to face spiritual battles with confidence, and why the Irish blessing continues to bless generations.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Vicar Experiences

    08:35 Celebrating St. Patrick's Day

    15:11 Irish Blessings and Personal Reflections

    22:20 Blessings and Friendship

    25:36 The History and Lore of St. Patrick's Day

    31:07 The Role of the Christian in Society

    34:16 The Brewmaster and Mission Work

    42:14 The Lenten Loophole

    48:04 The Color Wars of St. Patrick's Day

    52:28 Driving Out Theological Snakes

    53:48 Understanding Temptation and Human Limits

    56:51 The Role of Community in Enduring Trials

    01:02:04 Debunking Misconceptions: God Helps Those Who Help Themselves

    01:09:46 Letting Go: A Misunderstanding of Faith

    01:18:17 The Core of the Gospel: Jesus Lived, Died, and Rose Again

    01:26:36 Corned Beef and Cabbage: A Culinary Journey

    01:27:55 Irish Heritage and St. Patrick's Day Traditions

    01:29:01 The Cultural Significance of 'Danny Boy'

    01:29:41 Hot or Not: Irish Apparel and Symbols

    01:30:16 The Quest for the Four Leaf Clover

    01:31:16 Leprechauns and Irish Folklore

    01:31:50 Guinness: The Iconic Irish Stout

    01:32:16 The Price of Tradition: Guinness on St. Patrick's Day

    01:33:43 The Legacy of St. Patrick and Other Saints

    01:34:44 Green Beer: A St. Patrick's Day Staple?

    01:35:36 St. Patrick's Global Influence

    01:36:20 Trivia Time: Fun Facts About St. Patrick

    01:36:54 Closing Thoughts and Reflections

    01:37:55 charlieungemach-outro (1).mp4

    Cameron’s Links:

    https://www.instagram.com/camschro/

    https://www.georgiafaith.com/

    https://openbook-today.lovable.app/#

    https://open.spotify.com/artist/0ysdrhAB9fuBxdlL1C6tYm?si=4xN-hOOYSH6fDFrersR6ng

    Caleb’s Links:

    https://www.sjlprinceton.com/

    Connor’s Links:

    https://www.instagram.com/connor.herter/

    Gird Up Links:

    Website - https://www.girdupministries.com/

    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/girdup_podcast/

    YouTube - https://youtube.com/@girdupministries4911?si=bJQOUakikV4aUbc9


    17 March 2026, 5:56 pm
  • 1 hour 32 minutes
    1068 - Rev. Dr. John Bombaro | The Sacred Intersection: Christology and the Eucharist

    Have you ever wondered what truly happens during Holy Communion and why it matters so deeply? In this episode, we are joined by John Bombaro to explore the profound theological significance of the Eucharist, its roots in the ancient Catholic tradition, and how a renewed understanding can transform our worship and faith life.

    00:00 - Introduction to the significance of the Eucharist in Lutheran faith

    01:23 - The personal journey of John Bombaro from Catholic roots to confessional Lutheranism

    03:05 - Why the Lord’s Supper is often the center of doctrinal differences

    09:00 - Christology as the foundation of sacramentology vs. Christ-centeredness

    11:53 - The importance of continuity with Catholic and Orthodox sacramental traditions

    14:31 - The theological basis for the real presence and sacramental union

    23:00 - The importance of liturgical integrity and the threat of liturgical drift

    27:56 - The role of uniformity, tradition, and church authority in Lutheran worship

    34:31 - Restoring reverence, decorum, and beauty in the Lutheran mass

    42:48 - The significance of the priesthood, dignity, and proper liturgical practices

    50:46 - The spiritual warfare and enchantment of the Holy Communion

    66:34 - Moving beyond “kindergarten Christianity” toward deep sacramental understanding

    74:49 - The necessity of catechesis and lifelong education in Confessional Lutheran doctrine

    81:17 - Biblical and early church evidence for liturgy and sacrament practice

    90:33 - Luther’s liturgical reforms as a return to tradition, not innovation

    96:32 - Christian freedom and the discipline of reverent worship

    97:37 - The call to recover lost reverence and the legacy of confessional practice

    Hear John on Issues, Etc - https://issuesetc.org/guest/john-bombaro/

    John’s Book Recommendations: 

    Kent A. Heimbigner, In the Stead of Christ: The Relationship of the Celebration of the Lord’s Supper to the Office of Holy Ministry (Repristination Press, 1997).

    Alexander Schmemann, The Eucharist: Sacrament of the Kingdom (St. Vladimir’s Seminary Press, 1987).

    David Fagerberg, Consecrating the World: On Mundane Liturgical Theology (Angelico Press, 2016).

    David Fagerberg, The Liturgical Cosmos: The World Through the Lens of the Liturgy (Emmaus Academic, 2023).

    R. Alan Streett, Subversive Meals: An Analysis of the Lord’s Supper under Roman Domination during the First Century (Pickwick Publications, 2013).

    Scott Hahn, The Fourth Cup: Unveiling the Mystery of the Last Supper and the Cross (Image, 2018).

    James F. White, Sacraments as God’s Self Giving (Abingdon Press, 1983)

    Gird Up Links:

    Website - https://www.girdupministries.com/

    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/girdup_podcast/

    YouTube - https://youtube.com/@girdupministries4911?si=bJQOUakikV4aUbc9


    1 March 2026, 5:00 pm
  • 1 hour 31 minutes
    1067 - Victor Vieth | Addressing Abuse in Christian Communities

    In this conversation, Victor Veith, a prominent figure in child advocacy, discusses the intersection of faith and child protection. He shares his journey into child advocacy, the impact of vicarious trauma on professionals in the field, and the church's historical indifference to child abuse. Victor emphasizes the importance of education, both for the church and for individuals, in addressing and preventing abuse. He also explores the spiritual wounds inflicted on victims and the need for churches to create safe environments for children. The conversation touches on corporal punishment, the lessons from Martin Luther's experiences, and the dangers of internet pornography, ultimately calling for a proactive approach to child protection within faith communities.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Child Advocacy and Faith

    08:14 The Impact of Trauma on Faith

    13:32 The Church's Indifference to Child Abuse

    22:03 Cognitive Dissonance and Child Abuse

    27:42 The Need for Community Awareness

    33:20 Corporal Punishment and Its Misinterpretation

    43:45 Lessons from Martin Luther's Experience

    54:39 Spiritual Wounds: The Intersection of Trauma and Faith

    01:02:41 Creating Safe Spaces: Church and Community Responsibilities

    01:11:57 The Call to Action: Addressing Abuse in the Church

    01:23:42 Navigating the Aftermath: Support for Survivors and Offenders

    01:31:32 charlieungemach-outro (1).mp4


    Victor’s Links: 

    Freedom for the Captives - https://freedomforcaptives.com/

    GRACE - https://www.netgrace.org/

    Center for Faith & Child Protection - https://zeroabuseproject.org/for-professionals/cfcp/

    (Book) Here We Stand: A Lutheran Response to Child Abuse - https://wipfandstock.com/9798385205769/here-we-stand/

    (Book) On This Rock: Centering the Christian Response to Child Abuse on the Words of Jesus: https://a.co/d/072rKL84

    (Article) Pastoral Guidance on the Corporal Punishment of Children

    (Article) Until the Blood Ran: the Influence of Child Physical abuse in the Life & Works of Martin Luther

    (Article) Applying Law & Gospel in Cases of child abuse

    (Article) Pastoral Care for Adults Expressing a sexual attraction to children

    Gird Up Links:

    Website - https://www.girdupministries.com/

    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/girdup_podcast/
    YouTube - https://youtube.com/@girdupministries4911?si=bJQOUakikV4aUbc9

    23 February 2026, 10:17 pm
  • 1 hour 9 minutes
    1066 - FLAME | Exploring Faith, Art, and Cultural Engagement

    In this episode, we delve into Flame’s transformative journey from Christian hip hop to confessional Lutheranism, discussing how theology intersects with cultural expression and the importance of doctrinal testing and community. Flame shares insights on race, church history, apologetics, and cultivating unity across diverse communities.


    Timestamps:

    00:00 - Introducing Flame: Faith, Hip Hop, and Theology
    00:42 - Flame’s background and upbringing in Milwaukee
    1:12 - How Flame’s musical journey began with edutainment
    1:51 - Sharing the gospel through music and books
    2:37 - Flame’s transition from Reformed to Lutheran theology
    6:41 - The deconstruction process and testing doctrinal ideas
    9:46 - Impact of church history and the Reformation on Flame’s faith
    12:37 - Crisis of assurance and the saving work of Christ for all
    16:40 - Engaging culturally diverse communities and cross-cultural ministry
    22:53 - Addressing false teachings and false doctrines in church
    33:40 - The role of confessional Lutheranism and church history in modern faith
    43:26 - Discipleship and cultural expression through arts and vocation
    47:29 - Race, culture, and racial reconciliation in Lutheranism
    55:42 - Building bridges and practical outreach efforts for black communities
    62:29 - Advice to young Christian artists and future leaders
    63:58 - Encouragement to pursue theological and cultural training
    66:15 - Closing thoughts: Faith, influence, and community


    Flame's Links:

    Book - Extra Nos: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Discovering+Grace+Outside+of+Myself

    Book - Because Jesus Taught It: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Christianity+Through+the+Eyes+of+the+Church+Fathers

    Podcast - Extra Nos Academy: https://extranosacademy.com/#podcast

    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/flame314/


    Gird Up Links:

    https://youtube.com/@girdupministries4911?si=tbCa0SOiluVl8UFx

    https://www.instagram.com/girdup_be_a_man/

    https://www.girdupministries.com

    17 February 2026, 2:13 am
  • 1 hour 18 minutes
    1065 - George Hogan | Young Christians and Worship

    Summary

    In this episode of the Gird Up Podcast, host Charlie Ungemach welcomes George Hogan, a student at Martin Luther College and an accomplished organist, to discuss the significance of liturgy and music in the Lutheran tradition. The conversation begins with George's background in theater and music, highlighting his passion for the organ and its role in worship. They explore the value of young people engaging in the arts, particularly theater, and how it fosters discipline and public speaking skills. As the discussion shifts towards church music, George emphasizes the importance of the organ in leading congregational singing, arguing that its unique sound and historical significance make it an irreplaceable instrument in worship settings.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to the Gird Up Podcast

    03:22 Meet George Hogan: A Passion for Music

    07:21 The Value of Young People in the Arts

    12:19 George's Journey into Playing the Organ

    21:06 The Historical Significance of the Organ in Worship

    26:42 Why the Organ Should Remain in Modern Worship

    33:43 The Essence of Congregational Singing

    35:47 Historical Context of Worship Practices

    41:43 The Importance of Authenticity in Worship

    49:35 The Role of Music in Ministry

    01:12:23 George's Journey to the Ministry

    01:18:04 charlieungemach-outro (1).mp4


    George's Links:

    Luther Prep - https://www.lps.wels.net/

    Martin Luther College - https://mlc-wels.edu/


    Gird Up Links:

    https://youtube.com/@girdupministries4911?si=tbCa0SOiluVl8UFx

    https://www.instagram.com/girdup_be_a_man/

    https://www.girdupministries.com

    2 February 2026, 6:32 pm
  • 1 hour 22 minutes
    1064 - Ben Sadler | Living Every Day in Light of the Last Day

    Summary

    In this episode of the GirdUp Podcast, host Charlie Ungemach engages in a deep conversation with Pastor Ben Sadler about his new book, The Meaningful Life. They explore the rise of pastors writing books, the importance of finding meaning in work, and how secular wisdom can complement Christian faith. The discussion delves into the crisis of meaning in modern society, the significance of vocation, and the role of discernment in reading. They emphasize the four-part story of creation, fall, redemption, and renewal, and how understanding this narrative can provide purpose and direction in life. The episode concludes with practical insights on bringing order to chaos and the eternal significance of our actions.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to the Grit Up Podcast and Guest Introduction

    03:51 The Rise of Pastors as Authors

    06:44 Exploring the Meaning of Life

    09:44 The Role of Viktor Frankl in Understanding Meaning

    12:39 Using Secular Resources in Christian Life

    15:45 The Crisis of Meaning in Modern Society

    18:33 Finding Meaning in Circumstances

    21:36 The Importance of Identity in Christ

    24:01 The Narrative of Scripture and Our Purpose

    27:05 The Tension Between What Is and What Will Be

    29:56 The Resurrection and Our Future Hope

    33:11 The Impact of Good Theology on Psychology

    43:22 The Search for Meaning Beyond Human Reason

    44:09 Vocation and Its Impact on Meaning

    45:25 The Crisis of Meaning and the Return to Christianity

    47:22 Intrinsic Value and the Image of God

    48:39 The Role of Christians in Addressing Meaning

    50:46 The Biblical Narrative of Hope and Resurrection

    52:35 The Disconnect in Christian Understanding

    54:09 The Depth of the Gospel and Its Implications

    57:00 Living in Light of Future Perfection

    01:00:38 Vocation as a Means to Bring Order to Chaos

    01:02:11 Navigating Small C Callings

    01:08:15 Recognizing God's Guidance in Our Choices

    01:18:07 Bringing Order to Chaos as a Vocation

    01:22:46 charlieungemach-outro (1).mp4


    Pastor Ben's Links:

    Book: https://a.co/d/8anv7cu

    Blog site: www.pastorbensadler.com

    Time of Grace: https://timeofgrace.org/writer-speaker/pastor-ben-sadler/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pastorbensadler

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bensadler1982/


    Gird Up Links:https://youtube.com/@girdupministries4911?si=tbCa0SOiluVl8UFx

    https://www.instagram.com/girdup_be_a_man/

    https://www.girdupministries.com


    18 January 2026, 5:00 pm
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