Decisions: A Dunham+Company Podcast

In this episode of the Decisions Podcast, Jonathan Pitts sits down with economist, educator, and author Larry Reed to explore the convictions behind his lifelong commitment to liberty. From decades spent teaching and leading think tanks to defending free enterprise, Larry shares the experiences that shaped his worldview. Drawing from his new book, Born of Ideas: How Principles, Faith, and Courage Forged America, Larry explores the ideas and principles that shaped America, including the Mayflower Compact, the influence of faith and the Great Awakening, and the role of individual freedom in the American founding. Jonathan and Larry also wrestle with timely questions about privacy, technology, AI, community, and what it means to think freely in an increasingly complex world. Tune in for a conversation about history, faith, courage, freedom, and the responsibility we each have to think for ourselves and help build a society where others are free to do the same.

What if advancing the Kingdom starts with simply connecting the right people? In this episode of the Decisions Podcast, Jonathan Pitts sits down with Charlie Burke, a pastor, church planter, and global Kingdom connector, to talk about the power of relationships in leadership. They explore what it means to lead with integrity, kindness, trust, and a willingness to put others before yourself. Charlie shares why safe leaders matter, how to become a “hero maker” rather than the hero of your own story, and why making room for relationships that don’t immediately benefit you can have a lasting Kingdom impact. Whether you lead a nonprofit, church, or business, this conversation is for you.

What does it really take to become a leader who makes a lasting impact? In this episode of the Decisions Podcast, Jonathan sits down with Matt Paden, president and managing partner of Great Days Leadership and author of The Core: Eight Principles for Building Strong, Authentic Leadership, to explore why great leadership starts from the inside out. Matt shares how his grandfather’s powerful reminder—that there are “two great days” in life, the day you’re born and the day you realize why you were born—shaped his understanding of purpose and leadership. He also opens up about how difficult seasons can reveal our character and why leaders must continually strengthen their “core” before the next storm arrives. Whether you lead a nonprofit, church, business, team, or family, this conversation offers practical encouragement for becoming a more authentic and purpose-driven leader that makes a lasting impact.

Hot-button issues dominating our culture can make speaking out feel taboo. Hiding from hard conversations won’t work. On this episode of the Decisions Podcast, Mike Novotny discusses his newest book, Taboo: Topics Christians Should be Talking About but Don’t, and equips listeners to have hard conversations in a redemptive way. In Taboo, author Mike Novotny covers deeply personal, vulnerable, and emotional topics, handling them with grace and respect. It’s the ultimate resource for Christians looking to create change and deal with struggles in their own lives. God’s Word gives us clarity, healing, and hope. Taboo is a must-read for Christians looking for a biblically based resource to modern questions. Not talking is not helping! It’s time for believers to step gracefully into the taboo and share God’s truth with a world in need. Mike is the lead speaker for Time of Grace, a global media ministry that is committed to ensuring that God’s grace—His love, glory, and power—is accessible around the world

On this episode of Decisions, Trent Dunham sits down with pastor and author Levi Lusko, who shares a deeply personal conversation about navigating life’s seasons. This includes the lessons he learned during a challenging midlife period and how he’s using those experiences now to inspire others. Together, Trent and Levi explore topics such as finding identity in God rather than worldly achievements, stewarding life’s scars for impact, and understanding the rhythms and seasons of our lives. Levi also offers a preview of his upcoming book, Blessed Are The Spiraling, packed with insights designed to help readers find clarity, purpose, and hope in seasons of uncertainty. Whether you're stepping into a new stage of life, wrestling with challenges, or looking to deepen your faith, this episode offers practical wisdom and encouragement.

In this enlightening episode, Jonathan Pitts welcomes esteemed guest, Debra Fileta – a licensed professional counselor, national speaker, and author of bestsellers like Are You Really Okay? Debra shares insights from her counseling practice, emphasizing the importance of maintaining balance in our personal and professional lives. Drawing from her own experiences, she discusses the power of boundaries, the significance of honoring one's humanity, and how to manage burnout effectively by using six rhythms. Whether you're a leader, a parent, or someone seeking a more fulfilled life, this episode offers valuable takeaways for anyone who wants to live with intention and joy. Don't miss this candid discussion about growth, healing, and how small steps can lead to profound transformations.

In this heartfelt episode of the Decisions Podcast, host Trent Dunham sits down with Pastor Ricky Jenkins of Southwest Church in Palm Springs, California, to explore his incredible journey of faith, leadership, and perseverance. From his roots in Mississippi as a fourth-generation pastor to leading a vibrant church in the Coachella Valley, Ricky shares how God has shaped his path through pivotal moments and challenges. Together, they discuss the importance of staying faithful to God’s calling, the power of community impact, and the lessons learned from seasons of growth and hardship. Whether you’re a leader, pastor, or someone seeking encouragement in your own journey, this episode will inspire you to trust God, embrace the process, and never quit. Tune in for a story of resilience, vision, and Kingdom impact!

In this impactful episode of the Decisions podcast, we’re thrilled to sit down with Colton Kyle, son of the legendary American Sniper, Chris Kyle. Colton shares his journey growing up under his father's immense legacy and the unique challenges he faced along the way. He is committed to continuing his father's mission, extending beyond the book "American Sniper" to actively support veterans and first responders, ensuring their sacrifices are honored. Whether you know Chris Kyle's story or not, Colton's insights will inspire you and highlight the lasting impact of a legacy grounded in faith and service. Tune in to explore the vital connection between personal struggle, public duty, and unwavering belief

In this eye-opening episode of the Decisions Podcast, host Jonathan Pitts dives into the challenges and opportunities of parenting in the digital age. As a father navigating two very different generations—Gen Z daughters and a Gen Alpha son—Jonathan reflects on the lessons learned and the new realities of raising kids in a world dominated by technology. Joining him is Chris McKenna, founder of Protect Young Eyes and a nationally recognized expert in digital safety. Chris shares his journey from corporate risk management to ministry and his mission to equip families with practical tools to navigate the digital minefield. Together, they discuss the dangers of the digital ecosystem, the rise of AI, and how parents and leaders can take actionable steps to protect and guide the next generation. Tune in for a conversation packed with wisdom, practical advice, and hope for thriving in a tech-driven world.

In this heartfelt episode of the Decisions Podcast, host Jonathan Pitts welcomes his longtime friend and colleague, Matt Smallbone. Matt is a pastor, author, and former touring musician who has spent decades leading and inspiring others. As the lead pastor of Church of the City in downtown Nashville, Matt brings warmth, joy, and authenticity to every room he enters. Together, they dive into Matt’s journey from touring the world as a bass player to pastoring a fast-growing congregation, and the pivotal moments that shaped his leadership. They also explore the inspiration behind Matt’s new book, The Prayer Experiment, which unpacks his personal struggle with prayer and how he found a simple, transformative way to connect with God. Tune in for an honest and encouraging conversation about leadership, prayer, and finding joy in the midst of life’s complexities.