On the road to VOUSCon, Rich sat down with worship leader and recording artist John Wilds for a powerful conversation about presence, purity, and purpose. John has led worship around the world—but his story starts far from the stage. Raised by a single mother, he experienced homelessness, church hurt, and deep rejection. At 17, he cried out to God—and one encounter changed everything. They talk about what it means to truly be led by the Spirit, how to protect your heart when your platform grows,...
Jun 24, 2025•1 hr 35 min•Season 3Ep. 59
On this episode of Mature Me: On the Move, Rich sits down with JJ—husband, preacher, and pastor of Journey Church in Orlando—for a conversation about calling, character, and learning to lead through both clarity and cost.JJ doesn’t just talk about faith—he’s lived it.He shares the story of losing his son, planting a church through grief, and how that journey reshaped his understanding of trust, purpose, and the voice of God.They talk through how he prepares to preach, the art of communication, a...
Jun 17, 2025•1 hr 58 min•Season 3Ep. 60
Less than two weeks from VOUSCon, Mature Me: On The Move continues with bestselling author and leadership coach Jon Gordon. In this episode, Rich sits down with Jon—a voice who has deeply shaped his leadership journey. Long before the bestselling books and leadership conferences, Jon was a husband on the verge of losing his marriage. That breaking point led him to Jesus… to daily gratitude walks… and eventually to writing The Energy Bus —a book that was rejected 30 times before becoming a global...
Jun 10, 2025•1 hr 28 min•Season 3Ep. 59
On this episode of Mature Me: On the Move, Rich sits down with Bodie—singer, songwriter, husband, and father of three—for a powerful conversation about identity, gifting, and the tension between platform and presence.Rich dives into Bodie’s journey: from getting expelled in high school to leading in the Church, from saying no to The Voice until God gave the green light, to learning how to stay grounded while on tour.Bodie opens up about pride, pressure, and what it means to humbly partner with h...
Jun 03, 2025•1 hr 15 min•Season 3Ep. 58
Mature Me is on the move.We’re on The Road to VOUSCon—running 400 miles in 40 days from Jacksonville to Miami—serving people, building community, and having conversations along the way. In our first stop in Duval, Rich sits down in the RV with one of his favorite preachers—and longtime friend—Tim Timberlake, senior pastor of Celebration Church.Tim has been pastoring for 21 years. He’s walked through pain, pastored under pressure, and grew up running from the call of God. But today, his mission i...
May 27, 2025•1 hr 43 min•Season 3Ep. 57
This week on Mature Me, Rich sits down with Chandler Smith—former U.S. Army officer, West Point graduate, and one of the top CrossFit athletes in the world.From wrestling at a national level to leading in the military to ranking 7th in the world at the CrossFit Games, Chandler’s life has been marked by competition. But beyond the accolades is a story of resilience.In this episode, Chandler shares about his upbringing, the discipline it takes to lead, and the moments that tested his identity. Fro...
May 21, 2025•1 hr 33 min•Season 3Ep. 56
In this episode of Mature Me, Rich sits down with Sean Cannell—CEO of Think Media and a leading voice in digital strategy. Sean’s been creating videos for over 20 years—before viral content or creator careers were even a thing. What started in a small church has grown into a global media company serving top creators and brands. They talk about: — Building with character — Using AI as a leadership tool — Stewarding what’s in your hand — Handling conflict with maturity Whether you're a full-time c...
May 14, 2025•1 hr 44 min•Season 3Ep. 55
In this episode of the Mature Me Podcast, Rich sits down with Philip Anthony Mitchell: husband, father, pastor and a faithful man of God. Philip Anthony is probably no stranger to you all. He leads 2819 Church in Atlanta, Georgia and is a man of God’s word. They unpacked ministry from all angles and the reality of being held to such a high public standard. They unraveled the idea of what success really looks like, the power of the secret place and even leading through hard times. Sign up for Lea...
May 06, 2025•1 hr 41 min•Season 3Ep. 54
In today’s episode, Rich is joined by his wife, DawnCheré Wilkerson — as she releases her very first book, Slow Burn . Written over a decade, what began as journal entries and reflections has become a powerful testament to the quiet strength and beauty found in waiting. Slow Burn is about the work and wonder hidden in the waiting. As DawnCheré says, “the wait is not just a season — the wait is life.” They dive into the real-life moments, unexpected turns, and lessons learned that shaped Slow Bur...
Apr 29, 2025•1 hr 21 min•Season 3Ep. 53
On this episode of the Mature Me Podcast, Rich sits with theologians Dr. Tennison and Dr. Valmyr as well as Dakota Duron and the students of VOUS College of Ministry to talk about the cross and the call to maturity.On the heels of Easter, they discuss the death, burial and resurrection of Christ. They explore dense, theological concepts like the dual nature of Christ, the power of suffering, what it means to grow from milk to meat and the power of the resurrection of Christ. More than just theol...
Apr 15, 2025•1 hr 37 min•Season 2Ep. 52
In this staff meeting edition of Mature Me, Rich shares a message titled “I Can’t Carry This Alone,” drawn from Numbers 11:14 where Moses says,“I cannot carry all these people by myself; the burden is too heavy for me.”Rich unpacks the weight of leadership—and how God’s solution to exhaustion isn’t elimination, but delegation. He speaks honestly about team building, stewardship, and the power of gratitude over complaining.This message is a reminder that we’re not meant to carry the burden alone....
Apr 08, 2025•37 min
In this message from Grow Leader Conference 2025, Rich unpacks the idea that leadership isn’t just about what you say, but what you do. He talks about designing a healthy culture within teams and organizations, and why it's crucial for both building and sustaining momentum along the journey.Culture isn’t created by accident—it’s shaped by what we allow, what we correct, and what we celebrate. If you don’t confront it, you’re choosing to live with it and if you don’t honor it, you’re risking losi...
Apr 01, 2025•46 min
In this episode of Mature Me, Rich sits down with Todd Mullins—pastor of Christ Fellowship Church in West Palm Beach, husband of 38 years, father, and first-time author of Don’t Let Doubt Take You Out . Todd has been leading longer than most, and his wisdom reflects a life built on consistent faith. He shares about raising his son Jefferson, navigating doubt, and how brokenness has made him more compassionate, present, and dependent on God. Together, they talk about leading when you don’t feel e...
Mar 25, 2025•1 hr 23 min•Season 2Ep. 51
This week on Mature Me, Rich sits down with Jimmy Rollins—speaker, author, and former pastor who, alongside his wife Irene, spent 25 years in full-time ministry, including 10 years as Senior Pastor of i5 City. They discuss the tension between external success and internal struggle, how easy it is to get comfortable in discomfort, and what it took for Jimmy to step away and rebuild from the inside out. Miracles can happen in a moment, but restoration takes a process. Jimmy shares his journey of h...
Mar 18, 2025•2 hr 3 min•Season 2Ep. 50
This week on Mature Me, Rich sits down with Dan and Jojo Watson, Location Pastors at Passion City Church and former leaders at Hillsong London, where they helped build and lead a thriving young adult ministry. They discuss building teams, raising leaders, and staying anchored in calling—even when everything shifts. Leadership isn’t about control—it’s about recruiting, raising up, and releasing others into their purpose. Sign up for Leadership With Rich free weekly newsletter: https://www.richwi...
Mar 11, 2025•1 hr 11 min•Season 2Ep. 49
On Ep 48, Rich sits down with Travis Hearn–leader, pastor, and author, who shares his extraordinary journey of recovery after surviving a massive stroke. His story is a living testament to God’s work through signs and wonders, reminding us that miracles are real and still happening today. They also dive into leadership, ministry, and Travis’ new book, The Fire Is For You, out now. If you’ve been hoping or waiting for a miracle in your life, this conversation is the encouragement you’ve been look...
Mar 05, 2025•1 hr 50 min•Season 2Ep. 48
On ep 47, Rich sits down with Erwin McManus—husband, father, author, Pastor of Mosaic Church, visionary, communicator, and so much more. They dive into the art of communication—not just as a skill, but as a soul connection, leadership, and worship. Erwin breaks down the seven frequencies of communication from his latest book, Seven, and why understanding ourselves and others shapes the quality of our relationships—and ultimately, our lives. He shares what decades of leading and working with peop...
Feb 26, 2025•1 hr 52 min•Season 2Ep. 47
What does it really take to plant a church? How do you stay obedient when the weight feels overwhelming? On Ep 46, Rich sits down with Russell Johnson and Jabin Chavez, lead pastors of The Pursuit NW in Seattle and City Light Church in Las Vegas. They get real and share the weight of obedience, untold church stories, the pressure of the calling, and how God’s grace meets us in the struggle. Sign up for Leadership With Rich free weekly newsletter: https://www.richwilkersonjr.com Watch this epis...
Feb 19, 2025•1 hr 47 min•Season 2Ep. 46
On Ep 45, Rich has an insightful conversation with Dino Rizzo—a leader who has spent his life building the Church, pouring into pastors, and helping people step into their purpose. As the Executive Director of ARC, he’s helped plant over 370 churches, but more than that, he has a heart for seeing people stay planted and grow where God has called them to be. We talk about leadership, purpose, and being part of something that lasts through generations. Sign up for Leadership With Rich free weekly ...
Feb 12, 2025•1 hr 39 min•Season 2Ep. 45
On Ep 44, Rich and Dakota Duron sit down with NFL legend Wes Welker, one of the greatest wide receivers to ever play the game. From going undrafted and getting cut to becoming a key part of New England’s winning culture, Wes shares how discipline, consistency, and faith shaped his journey—even when he didn’t understand it at the time. We talk about the highs, the setbacks, his sudden departure from the Miami Dolphins and the lessons he learned through it all. Sign up for Leadership With Rich fre...
Feb 05, 2025•1 hr 29 min•Season 2Ep. 44
On Ep 43, Rich sits down with Jason Kennedy—celebrated news anchor, husband, father of two and, believe it or not, Rich's best friend of 25 years! From the highs and lows of his 16-year career at E! News to navigating life’s valleys and mountaintops, Jason shares how he found his identity beyond his job and embraced growth in every season. You won't want to miss this episode full of untold stories, laughter, tears and more. Sign up for Leadership With Rich free weekly newsletter: https://www.ri...
Jan 29, 2025•1 hr 34 min•Season 2Ep. 43
What does it mean to stand firm in your convictions, even when the world is against you? To kick off the new year, Rich sits down with Sage Steele—an icon in sports journalism whose story is one of courage, resilience, and purpose. From being canceled by mainstream media to walking through divorce and heartbreak, Sage shares how she found strength in her faith, family, and calling. Now, as the creator of The Sage Steele Show, she reflects on finding purpose in the pain and standing firm through ...
Jan 22, 2025•1 hr 45 min•Season 2Ep. 42
On ep 41, Rich sits with John Cameron–pastor, author, coach and more. After founding and leading the largest church in New Zealand, John & his wife Gillian are now based on the Gold Coast of Australia and travel the world preaching at Christian events and coaching pastors and leaders. They talk about facing crisis and opposition, learning the rhythms of each season, how to grow and scale what your sphere of influence and more. Sign up for Leadership With Rich free weekly newsletter: https:/...
Dec 11, 2024•1 hr 51 min•Season 1Ep. 41
On the verge of welcoming their 4th child, Rich & DawnCheré take some time to answer some of your questions on all things parenthood. From how they raise their kids, to confronting their fears and how they navigate new seasons, they share it all. Whether you’re a parent, about to be, or just love a good, honest convo, this one’s for you. Stay tuned to all of Rich’s latest content: https://www.richwilkersonjr.com Watch this episode on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCARNPkLHwzeC4KSX...
Dec 04, 2024•1 hr 19 min•Season 1Ep. 40
What does leadership look like in a fast-changing world? On ep 39 Rich sits down with Rob Hoskins, President of OneHope and one of the most respected voices in global development. His work has impacted over 1.9 billion children worldwide. Rob has spent his life serving fellow NGO leaders, pouring into the next generation, and developing sustainable transformation initiatives, locally and globally. They talk about challenges and reflections that come from a life of service, how the next generatio...
Nov 27, 2024•1 hr 44 min•Season 1Ep. 39
Can women lead in church? Can women preach? What does the Bible really say about it? On ep 38, we’re sitting down with Dr. Allen Tennison, Pastor and theologian who helps shape the big theological conversations for the Assemblies of God; and Manouchka Charles, VOUS Church’s location director, pastor and so much more. We’ll unpack scripture, break down leadership roles, and share real stories about women breaking barriers in ministry and life. Stay tuned to all of Rich’s latest content: https://w...
Nov 20, 2024•1 hr 36 min•Season 1Ep. 38
On ep 37, Rich welcomes Chris Mendez for a conversation on leadership, adjusting to big life transitions, following your calling and more. Searching for a way out of addiction, Chris turned to Jesus and experienced a radical transformation overnight. By age 20, he joined Hillsong College in Sydney as an intern and, today, he leads their locations in Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, and Mexico. In this conversation, they dive into his leap across continents, the highs and lows of ministry, staying roo...
Nov 13, 2024•1 hr 21 min•Season 1Ep. 37
On ep 36 of Mature Me, Rich welcomes his own Pastor, Chris Hodges, who leads Church of The Highlands in Birmingham, Alabama. Chris, who also launched GrowLeader and co-founded ARC, shares his knowledge and insights on leadership, being a mentor, parenting tips, the journey of growth and more. Register for Pastors Assembly today: pastorsassembly.com Stay tuned to all of Rich’s latest content: https://www.richwilkersonjr.com Watch this episode on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCARNPkLHw...
Oct 29, 2024•1 hr 13 min•Season 1Ep. 36
On ep 35, Rich, along with Manouchka Charles and Dakota Duron, host Charlie Hughes. Charlie leads Church By The Glades' youth ministry "Rally", with hundreds of students attending each month. In this candid conversation, they talk through how to find and follow your calling, leadership methods, dating trends and their passion to bring the next generation closer to Jesus. Stay tuned to all of Rich’s latest content: https://www.richwilkersonjr.com Watch this episode on Youtube: https://www.youtube...
Oct 22, 2024•1 hr 34 min•Season 1Ep. 35
Are you saying "yes" to God? On episode 34 of Mature Me, Rich is joined by worship leader, artist and songwriter Mariah McManus Goss for a conversation about calling, marriage, overcoming insecurities and more. If you've ever questioned whether you're truly following the path God has designed for you, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Stay tuned to all of Rich’s latest content: https://www.richwilkersonjr.com Watch this episode on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCARNPkLHwzeC4K...
Oct 15, 2024•1 hr 22 min•Season 1Ep. 34
