In this episode, we sit down with Vic Clesceri—practitioner, scholar, and evangelist—to explore the way of surrender as the foundation of discipleship.

Who is Vic?

• Founder of The Management Sherpa
  https://www.themanagementsherpa.com
• Professor of Marketing at Miami University Farmer School of Business
• Founder of The Surrender Project
  https://www.surrenderproject.com
• Author of The Way of Surrender
  https://www.surrenderproject.com/TWOS-604-MM-ENG.html

Vic Clesceri is a rare blend of practitioner, scholar, and evangelist. In this conversation, we explore how surrender, not striving, is the pathway to freedom, unity, and faithful leadership in every area of life.

Vic shares how growing up Catholic while attending a Protestant church shaped his conviction that the Body of Christ is deeply divided—and how Jesus’ prayer for unity in John 17 calls us to something better.

He recounts a powerful 3:00am encounter with Jesus that led him to journal his journey of surrender, eventually forming the 50 maxims behind the Surrender Assessment and his book, The Way of Surrender.

Together, they discuss why fear is the primary barrier to surrendering fully to Jesus—in business, money, family, and everyday life—and how true freedom lives on the other side of trust.

The conversation also touches on Vic’s work through The Management Sherpa and his ministry among students as a professor, helping shape young leaders to walk with Jesus in every area of life.

This episode is an invitation to lay down control, confront fear, and follow Jesus with open hands.

Connect with Vic

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vclesceri
• Business: https://www.themanagementsherpa.com
• Ministry & Book: https://www.surrenderproject.com

Stay Connected with With Him

Subscribe to the With Him Podcast email list
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Resources & Contact

Email Raz & Jamie:
razwithhim@gmail.com

Their church: Mariemont Church
https://www.mariemontchurch.org

Jamie’s website & writing:
https://www.jamiemoore.org

Jamie’s book, Friendship with God:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1736292609

In this second episode with Kristen Schumacher, we zoom out to focus on the story and impact of Nehemiah Manufacturing — a company that has trail-blazed second-chance hiring practices since 2009, long before fair-chance employment became a mainstream conversation.

Founded on the conviction that meaningful work restores dignity, Nehemiah intentionally built its business model around hiring individuals with significant barriers to employment, including those with criminal records, homelessness, and disrupted life histories. What began as a bold, countercultural experiment has grown into the largest second-chance manufacturing company in the United States, proving that doing good and doing business well are not competing values.

Nehemiah’s innovative approach to redemptive employment has gained national recognition, becoming a case study at leading business schools — including Harvard and Yale — where MBA students study Nehemiah as a model of purpose-driven leadership, social impact, and sustainable growth. The company demonstrates that when leaders center dignity, accountability, and opportunity, businesses can flourish while transforming lives and communities.

Based in Cincinnati’s inner city, Nehemiah partners with local organizations to provide job readiness training, mentoring, and wrap-around support so employees are not only hired, but positioned to thrive long-term. The result is more than jobs — it’s restored hope, strengthened families, and renewed neighborhoods.

Inspired by the biblical Nehemiah, who was called to rebuild broken walls and restore a people, Nehemiah Manufacturing continues that work today — rebuilding lives one person and one day at a time — and offering a compelling vision of what it looks like to lead, hire, and build with Jesus at the center.

A Practical Way to Support Nehemiah Manufacturing
One of the simplest ways to support the mission of Nehemiah Manufacturing is by purchasing the products they proudly make. Every purchase helps create meaningful jobs, restore dignity, and provide second chances for individuals working to rebuild their lives.
Nehemiah manufactures a growing lineup of household, cleaning, and consumer products you already use every day — thoughtfully made, high-quality, and rooted in a mission to build brands, create jobs, and change lives.

Shop Nehemiah-made products:
https://madebynehemiah.com/pages/shop

When you buy Nehemiah products, you’re not just buying something useful — you’re helping rewrite someone’s story through meaningful work.

You can also learn more and follow their ongoing impact at:
https://www.madebynehemiah.com

https://www.instagram.com/madebynehemiah

Subscribe to the "With Him" Podcast email list
Get new episodes, bonus content, and more:
https://mailchi.mp/mariemontchurch/sub-to-with-him-podcast

Explore past episodes and resources
https://www.mariemontchurch.org/with-him-podcast

Resources & Contact Info
Email Raz & Jamie: razwithhim@gmail.com

Their church: Mariemont Church (Cincinnati, OH)
https://www.mariemontchurch.org

Jamie’s website & writing:
https://www.jamiemoore.org

Jamie’s book, Friendship with God
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1736292609

In this episode, we get to know Kristen Schumacher (Chief Marketing Officer, Nehemiah Manufacturing) on a personal level. Kristen shares her story of growing up in a Catholic family where faith was present and her relationship with Jesus became profoundly personal at a very young age. As early as six years old, she experienced Jesus as her closest friend — journaling prayers and conversations with Him as part of her everyday life.

Kristen vulnerably recounts a horrific experience of abuse and the confusion, anxiety, depression, and pain that surfaced during her college years as a result. She reflects on the slow and sacred healing journey that followed — a journey where Jesus met her in her suffering, wept with her, restored her heart, and eventually invited her into the difficult but freeing work of forgiveness.

Throughout the conversation, we explore the critical importance of being rooted and grounded in our identity in Christ — especially when navigating healing, leadership, marriage, parenting, and work. Kristen shares how identity, not performance, has become the anchor of her life and leadership.

She also offers practical wisdom for staying grounded in the midst of a demanding career, including her intentional practice of scheduling “busy” time on her calendar — not to accomplish more, but to pause, recenter, and root herself again in Jesus.

Kristen currently serves as Chief Marketing Officer at Nehemiah Manufacturing, a mission-driven company built on dignity, redemption, and second chances. Her personal journey with Jesus has deeply shaped the way she leads, loves, and lives — making this conversation both tender and powerfully hope-filled.

Learn More About Nehemiah Manufacturing
Kristen’s story is deeply connected to the redemptive work happening every day at Nehemiah Manufacturing — a company pioneering second-chance employment and proving that business can be a powerful force for healing and dignity.

To learn more about their mission, stories, and products:
Visit https://www.madebynehemiah.com

Follow along on social media https://www.instagram.com/madebynehemiah

If this conversation stirred something in you, we encourage you to check out Nehemiah’s work and see how hope, purpose, and opportunity are being rebuilt — one person and one day at a time.

Subscribe to the "With Him" Podcast email list
Get new episodes, bonus content, and more:
https://mailchi.mp/mariemontchurch/sub-to-with-him-podcast

Explore past episodes and resources
https://www.mariemontchurch.org/with-him-podcast

Resources & Contact Info
Email Raz & Jamie: razwithhim@gmail.com

Their church: Mariemont Church (Cincinnati, OH)
https://www.mariemontchurch.org

Jamie’s website & writing:
https://www.jamiemoore.org

Jamie’s book, Friendship with God
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1736292609

Our first guest of Season 3 is Kristin Scott, a spiritual director who—along with her husband Jason Scott—leads Activation Ministries. This episode is a tender, deeply formative conversation about intimacy with God, learning His voice, and following Him with courage and trust.

Kristin’s Story: God as Her Personal “Rabbi”

Kristin shared how she came to faith early in life and, from the beginning, experienced a deeply personal relationship with God. While she often longed for human disciplers, she eventually realized something profound:
The Father Himself had been teaching her.

She described knowing God not just as Savior, but as her Rabbi—patiently instructing her, shaping her inner life, and walking with her day by day.

This season-opening conversation beautifully echoes the heart of With Him: not living for God in striving, but living with Him in relationship.

What Is a Spiritual Director?

Kristin explained what it means to serve as a spiritual director—someone who helps others notice where God is already present and active in their lives. Rather than giving answers, a spiritual director helps people:

1. Listen more attentively to God
2. Become aware of the movements of the Spirit
3. Grow in discernment and trust

She also shared about her formal training and certification through Sustainable Faith
https://sustainablefaith.com

and how that process deepened her confidence in the quiet, gentle work of God.

Ancient Practices for a Modern Faith

We explored some spiritual disciplines that Kristin has learned and now practices—many rooted in the ancient church, particularly the Catholic tradition.

One key practice she discussed was the Examen, a reflective prayer discipline developed by St. Ignatius, which invites believers to:

• Review their day with God
• Notice moments of consolation and desolation
• Give thanks, repent, and listen

Kristin emphasized that these practices are not about performance—but about awareness, presence, and love.

Stepping Into the Unknown With God

One of the most moving moments of the episode was Kristin’s vulnerability about stepping out in faith when it felt scary. She shared how the deep love of God—not pressure or fear—compelled her forward.

She testified that following God into the unknown doesn’t mean abandoning safety; instead, it means discovering that true security is found in His love.

A Prayer for the Listeners

Kristin closed the episode by praying over the listeners, inviting us all to slow down, listen more deeply, and trust the God who is already with us—teaching, leading, and loving us every step of the way.

Why This Episode Matters

This Season 3 premiere sets the tone for what’s ahead:

• A God who desires intimacy, not distance
• A faith shaped by listening, not striving
• A life formed with Jesus, not merely for Him

If you’re longing to know God more personally, to trust His guidance, or to cultivate a deeper inner life—this conversation is for you.

Listen, slow down, and learn to walk with Him.

To learn more about Kristin—and how to connect with her for spiritual direction—visit:

Activation Ministries
https://www.activationministries.org

Instagram: @activation_ministries
https://www.instagram.com/activation_ministries

Facebook: Activation Ministries
https://www.facebook.com/activationministries

Subscribe to the "With Him" Podcast email list

Get new episodes, bonus content, and more:
https://mailchi.mp/mariemontchurch/sub-to-

What does it look like to develop history with God?

In this episode, Jamie and Raz explore the idea that our relationship with God is meant to grow the same way any meaningful friendship does—through shared experiences, trust built over time, and walking together through both ordinary and extraordinary moments. Faith isn’t just about beliefs or behaviors; it’s about history—a lived, relational story with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Throughout Scripture, we see men and women who didn’t just know about God—they knew Him, because they had history with Him. Their intimacy wasn’t instant; it was formed through obedience, failure, listening, repentance, courage, and costly faithfulness.

This conversation invites listeners to move beyond transactional spirituality and into relational depth—where God is not just someone we serve, but Someone we walk with.

A Question Worth Sitting With

What kind of history are you building with God right now?
Not just what you believe—but what you’ve walked through together.

Invitation

If you’re longing for a deeper, more personal relationship with God—not just knowledge about Him—this episode will encourage you to start where all real intimacy begins: walking with Him, one step at a time.

Listen in, reflect, and consider how God may be inviting you into deeper history with Him.

Stories & Resources Mentioned

Foxe's Book of Martyrs – A sobering reminder of believers who developed deep, costly history with God through unwavering faith
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0882708759

Jesus Freaks – Modern-day stories of Christians who followed Jesus boldly, often at great personal cost
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0764237284

VeggieTales – Rack, Shack, and Benny – A surprisingly profound retelling of Daniel 3, reminding us (and our kids) that faithfulness is formed long before the furnace
https://veggietales.com

Subscribe to the "With Him" Podcast email list

Get new episodes, bonus content, and more:
https://mailchi.mp/mariemontchurch/sub-to-with-him-podcast

Explore past episodes and resources

https://www.mariemontchurch.org/with-him-podcast

Resources & Contact Info

Email Raz & Jamie:
razwithhim@gmail.com

Their church: Mariemont Church (Cincinnati, OH)
https://www.mariemontchurch.org

Jamie’s website & writing:
https://www.jamiemoore.org

Jamie’s book, Friendship with God
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1736292609

Welcome to Season 3 of the With Him Podcast!
As we step into the New Year of 2026, Raz and I kick off the season with a simple but profound theme: learning how to be present with Abba.

This episode isn’t about hustle, goals, or religious performance—it’s about relationship. We explore the Father’s heart to be with His kids and what it might look like to intentionally choose His presence in the year ahead.

The Word for 2026: Presence
What if this year wasn’t about doing more for God—but about being more with Him?

We talk about how human parents experience deep joy when their adult children choose to spend time with them—not out of obligation, but desire. That same joy, we believe, reflects the heart of God the Father. Abba delights when His kids want to be with Him.

Abba’s Love Language?
Building on insights from The 5 Love Languages, we play with a compelling idea:
What if God the Father’s primary love language is quality time?

If that’s true, then our presence—our attention, our availability—might be one of the greatest gifts we can give Him.

A Question for the New Year
We pose a reflective, prayerful question for listeners:
If Abba’s love language was quality time, what would you do differently this year?
Would you linger longer in prayer?
Create unhurried space in your day?
Choose presence over productivity?

Resources Mentioned in This Episode
If this theme stirs something in you, here are a few thoughtful resources we referenced:

God’s Relational Presence — J. Scott Duvall & J. Daniel Hayes
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0801049598

The Mission of God (2nd Edition) — Christopher J. H. Wright
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1514000040

The 5 Love Languages — Gary Chapman
https://www.amazon.com/dp/080241270X

Each of these helps frame a vision of God not as distant or demanding, but as a relational Father who desires closeness with His children.

An Invitation
As Season 3 begins, we invite you to consider this New Year not as a reset of striving—but as an invitation to presence.
Choose to be with Him.
Let your life flow from relationship.
Discover the joy of simply showing up with Abba.
We’re so glad you’re on this journey with us.

Subscribe to the "With Him" Podcast email list
Get new episodes, bonus content, and more:
https://mailchi.mp/mariemontchurch/sub-to-with-him-podcast

Explore past episodes and resources
https://www.mariemontchurch.org/with-him-podcast

Resources & Contact Info

Email Raz & Jamie: razwithhim@gmail.com

Their church: Mariemont Church (Cincinnati, OH)
https://www.mariemontchurch.org

Jamie’s website & writing:
https://www.jamiemoore.org

Jamie’s book, Friendship with God
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1736292609

In this second conversation, Jason Scott shares the heart and mission behind Activation Ministries, the ministry he and his wife Kristin launched to awaken hearts and ignite the Body of Christ. Their passion is simple and biblical: equip everyday believers to hear God’s voice, step into their identity, and join Jesus in His Kingdom work.

Jason describes himself as a “player-coach”—someone who doesn’t just teach from the sidelines but equips people and then steps onto the field with them to minister side-by-side.

We talk through the practical skills they teach, including how to hear God’s voice, how to give a prophetic word with love and clarity, and how to pray for healing in a naturally supernatural way.

This past summer, Activation partnered with City Church OTR for a missional outreach initiative. Each weekend they trained believers, then went out in small groups to hand out popsicles—affectionately called “godsicles.” This simple act opened doors for SALT conversations:
Start a conversation. Ask questions. Listen. Take action.

Through these steps of faith, they saw Jesus move—people encouraged, prayed for, deeply listened to… and even physically healed, including a man walking away from crutches.

If you’re hungry to learn how to recognize God’s voice, love people with boldness, and grow in Kingdom confidence, this episode will stir your heart.

To learn more about what Jason and Kristin are doing—and to consider partnering with or supporting their ministry—visit:

Activation Ministries
https://www.activationministries.org

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

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/activationministries

Their ministry is catalytic, practical, and deeply needed in the Church today. Go check them out and consider praying, giving, or getting equipped.

Subscribe to the "With Him" Podcast email list
Get new episodes, bonus content, and more:
https://mailchi.mp/mariemontchurch/sub-to-with-him-podcast

Explore past episodes and resources
https://www.mariemontchurch.org/with-him-podcast

Resources & Contact Info

Email Raz & Jamie:
razwithhim@gmail.com

Their church: Mariemont Church (Cincinnati, OH)
https://www.mariemontchurch.org

Jamie’s website & writing:
https://www.jamiemoore.org

Jamie’s book, Friendship with God
Available on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1736292609

This week on the With Him podcast, Raz and Jamie do something a little different. Instead of a deep theological dive or guest interview, we slow down and have some Christmas fun—sharing favorite Christmas memories, laughing about beloved (and debated!) Christmas movies, and reflecting on the timeless Charlie Brown Christmas special.

Along the way, we talk about nostalgia, simplicity, and why Charlie Brown’s struggle to find the meaning of Christmas still resonates so deeply today. It’s a light-hearted, warm, and honest conversation—perfect for the holiday season.

So grab some hot chocolate, settle in, and join us for a Christmas conversation with Him.

Resources mentioned:

Cincinnati Contemporary Jazz Orchestra
Bringing world-class jazz to the Cincinnati region, including incredible holiday performances.
https://www.cincinnatijazz.org

Cincinnati Contemporary Jazz Orchestra's New Christmas Album: “The Nutcracker Remix”
Looking for a fresh and fun Christmas soundtrack? The Cincinnati Contemporary Jazz Orchestra’s inaugural holiday recording reimagines The Nutcracker with bold, audience-favorite arrangements—blending funk, hip-hop, contemporary big band swing, and more.
The album also features several holiday classics, including a heartfelt original song by Mandy Gaines titled “Christmas This Year.” It’s joyful, soulful, and perfect for the season.
https://www.cincinnatijazz.org/recordings

Vince Guaraldi Trio
The iconic jazz sound behind A Charlie Brown Christmas—simple, soulful, and timeless.
A Charlie Brown Christmas (Album) – available on all major streaming platforms
https://open.spotify.com/album/4jKeipwuUTjlx9USNYdhZn

https://music.apple.com/us/album/a-charlie-brown-christmas/1440852425

A Charlie Brown Christmas (Movie)
The classic Christmas special that continues to point hearts back to the true meaning of Christmas.
Available on Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, and other major streaming platforms
https://tv.apple.com/us/movie/a-charlie-brown-christmas/umc.cmc.3c7p8x0p8z5k7x2x3c6zv9x5n

https://www.amazon.com/Charlie-Brown-Christmas-Peter-Robbins/dp/B000W5Z0YO

Subscribe to the "With Him" Podcast email list
Get new episodes, bonus content, and more:
https://mailchi.mp/mariemontchurch/sub-to-with-him-podcast

Explore past episodes and resources
https://www.mariemontchurch.org/with-him-podcast

Resources & Contact Info

Email Raz & Jamie:
razwithhim@gmail.com

Their church: Mariemont Church (Cincinnati, OH)
https://www.mariemontchurch.org

Jamie’s website & writing:
https://www.jamiemoore.org

Jamie’s book, Friendship with God
Available on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1736292609