Titans of Transition

Joe Miller

Powerful interviews with notable leaders who share relevant stories, anecdotes and insights to inspire transition to a more significant career and life.Video channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/TitansofTransition read less
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Episodes

65. From Chemical Engineering to Rockstar: Justin Chan's Unexpected Career Shift into Full-Time Worship Music Ministry
Sep 1 2023
65. From Chemical Engineering to Rockstar: Justin Chan's Unexpected Career Shift into Full-Time Worship Music Ministry
Send us a Text Message.Ever dreamt of making a dramatic career shift? Our guest for today, Justin Chan, did exactly that! From a successful chemical engineer to a full-time worship guitarist and music teacher, Justin's journey is both inspiring and thought-provoking. Tune in as we delve into his unique career transition and how he fulfilled his childhood dream of becoming a rockstar. His experiences at the Methodist School of Music and his commitment to various church training programs in Singapore reflect his dedication to his craft and music ministry.What does a typical day for a full-time worship musician look like? Justin takes us through his multi-faceted roles, sharing how he balances band training, concert music arrangement, and reviewing footage of churches' worship services. He also shares his adaptability in navigating the pandemic, leveraging digital platforms like YouTube and Zoom to continue his ministry work and keep the music alive. From sharing video seminars to creating worship music videos, Justin's commitment to the ministry remains unwavering amidst changing times.Finally, we unravel the realities of full-time music ministry with Justin. It's not just about creating music; it involves budget management, report writing, and decision-making for equipment purchases. Justin offers his insights on making the right career moves, understanding the difference between gifts and skills, and making choices that honor our responsibilities. This enlightening conversation with Justin Chan is not just for those considering a career in music ministry, but for anyone seeking inspiration from a unique career journey. Join us, and let's explore the power of passion and purpose together.Support the Show.
64. Connecting Hearts Through Music
Aug 18 2023
64. Connecting Hearts Through Music
Send us a Text Message.Ever wonder what it's like to use the universal language of music to connect with audiences and transform strangers into friends? Accomplished pianist and composer, Kelsey Lee Cate, takes us on a journey, sharing her experience of utilizing music as a bridge to reach beyond borders and create a sense of community. Kelsey lets us into her world of classical training, her adventures with improvisation, and the unique, often emotional, atmospheres she creates with her music, capturing the hearts of her audience in venues as diverse as restaurants, churches, and malls.Our conversation also touches on an inspiring story of a young girl named Meryl, and how Kelsey's music acted as a bridge, connecting her to Meryl and many others. Kelsey's exploration into live streaming and collaborations has expanded her network and infused her creativity with new energy. She lets us in on her innovative projects, including a riveting live-streamed dueling piano performance and the recording of personalized songs, all aimed at enhancing connection through her music.As we wrap up our conversation, we spotlight Kelsey's collaboration with pianist Jason Lux, providing a sneak peek into their inspiring improvisations on classics such as 'Edelweiss' and 'Favorite Things'. We also get a glimpse of Kelsey's upcoming endeavors, including interviewing inspiring folks, creating music videos, hosting house concerts, and crafting custom songs. This heartfelt discussion with Kelsey Lee Kate is sure to inspire you to appreciate the power of music in connecting people and creating community. Come, tune in, and let the music in.Support the Show.
61. Navigating Faith, Leadership, and Life's Crossroads with Pastor Roger Thompson
Apr 5 2023
61. Navigating Faith, Leadership, and Life's Crossroads with Pastor Roger Thompson
Send us a Text Message.Have you ever found yourself at a crossroads, seeking God's will with more questions than answers? On Titans of Transition, I sit down with my former pastor, Roger Thompson, and we share our personal journeys in faith and leadership, addressing those very doubts and challenges. Roger takes us back to his early days in Golden, Colorado, his decision to attend Westmont College, and his pursuit of seminary school, guided by his father's teachings and the inspiring stories of missionaries. Unraveling the complexities of faith, we discuss the unique gifts God bestows on us, and how humility and expectancy helps navigate the Christian life.Ever wondered how a preacher finds his calling? I share my story, from my deep-rooted church background to my desire to go into camping ministry, and finally my path into becoming a preaching pastor at a tender age of 26. An unexpected move to a dwindling church proved challenging but led me on a path of growth and self-discovery. I also discuss my decision to step away from the church I had served for 26 years when I felt it was time for a new direction. This brought to light the power of giving oneself away in love, and how it helps us to unearth our true gifts.Life is a journey, not a bullseye. Roger and I delve into this philosophy, exploring how we navigate life without always having the final answer. Through the metaphor of climbing, we ponder on the teachings of God in everyday life and the importance of listening to the wisdom of those around us. Roger shares his personal education journey and reveals the lessons he wished he had learned earlier on. We conclude with the invaluable note on seeking help and leveraging the gifts and talents of others. Tune in for a conversation filled with wisdom, insights, and inspiration for your own journey. More about Roger-Roger Thompson is committed to serving pastors and leaders in the communities surrounding Apple Valley. As a trained Man in the Mirror expert in men’s discipleship, Roger guides pastors and leaders through a comprehensive strategy to reach and disciple all of their men because every man discipled impacts a marriage, family, workplace and community. Discipleship changes everything!Roger Thompson lives in Apple Valley (Minneapolis), MN and serves as the Area Director for the Twin Cities South Coalition for Men’s Discipleship.  He was born in Winona Lake, Indiana and grew up in Colorado. After graduating, from Westmont College, and later from Denver Seminary, Roger served as a pastor for forty years. Roger is a speaker for Family Life’s “Weekends to Remember” and has recently authored a book entitled Do the Next Right Thing. Roger enjoys long tandem bike rides with his “stoker”/wife and they have two married daughters with raucous houses full of grandchildren for whom he makes furniture and toys. A marriage metaphor from the tandem: when you pedal in harmony there is twice the power with half the wind resistance. If you are not cooperating there is half the power and twice the resistance!If you would like Roger to speak at an event or a retreat, please contact him at rogerthompson@maninthemirror.org Do the Next Right Thing Today webpage.Support the Show.
60. Jay Johnson - Stepping Outside the Wire - Military Career Lessons
Feb 28 2023
60. Jay Johnson - Stepping Outside the Wire - Military Career Lessons
Send us a Text Message.I'm very pleased to have Jay Johnson on Titans of Transition to speak to his career journey and his successful transition from military service to owning and operating J2 Servant Leadership, LLC. He is a motivational speaker, trainer, facilitator, consultant, and coach, who is passionate about helping businesses and individuals achieve extraordinary results in their professional and personal lives. Many things can hold us back from a career transition including fear and insecurity. A repeating theme on this podcast and my coaching is escaping the comfort zone.  When things are going OK or even not great but they are predictable we often get stuck.    Jay Johnson has some great stories and illustrations about how to escape the comfort zone.  At one point in our conversation he talked about " getting outside the wire.  No doubt he heard this term often in the military.  He shares his personal career transition stories and many more lessons in this episode.Recently I attended PodFest, an event for podcasters to exchange ideas, explore technology and network with other in this space. I had the pleasure to meet with several podcasters who were retired from military service. I have great respect for them and their service! It was very interesting to hear their stories which included challenges in finding a new career or focus. More about Jay- Jay is a retired Air Force veteran who has led teams and organizations all over the world. He has vast experience in leadership, process improvement, change management, and training. Jay retired from active duty in 2010 and served for five years as a civil servant working at Randolph AFB in San Antonio, Texas. In this capacity, he led a team of management analysts and was directly responsible for overseeing 32,000 plus human resource requirements across nine states with an estimated value of $2.8 billion.J2 Servant LeadershipSupport the Show.
58. Finding Resilience and Purpose in a Time of Crisis
Dec 16 2022
58. Finding Resilience and Purpose in a Time of Crisis
Send us a Text Message.Imagine navigating a career pivot during a global pandemic, leaving the pastoral ministry you pursued for 15 years, and finding a new calling in the world of philanthropy. That's exactly what our guest, Dan Navarra, experienced, and he's here to share his inspiring story and the valuable lessons he learned along the way. With a focus on family, well-being, and embracing unexpected opportunities, Dan's journey is a testament to the power of resilience and adaptability.When COVID-19 struck, Dan found himself transitioning from a full-time pastor to a stay-at-home dad, all while grappling with the challenges of the pandemic on his career and family life. But through the guidance of a mentor and the power of networking, he discovered a new path in the nonprofit sector, eventually landing at the National Christian Foundation. His story serves as a reminder that while preparation is key, it's also crucial to remain open to unforeseen opportunities.In addition to sharing his personal journey, Dan enlightens us about the world of tax-smart giving strategies and the benefits of donor-advised funds. Learn how to optimize your tax situation, maximize your gift potential, and create a thoughtful giving strategy to steward what has been entrusted to you. Don't miss this incredible conversation that weaves together career transitions, personal growth, and impactful philanthropy. Dan can be reached at dnavarra@ncfgiving.comWatch Video VersionSupport the Show.