The Strategic Shift: Podcast Growth

Leaders, as we continue our "Year of Living Simply," we are seeing the fruit of our consistency. Our 30-45 Growth Journey Podcast has hit new heights. We are organizing the noise so we can focus on the nuance of individual ministry, and we will explain more details on this growth later in the report.

📜 Wisdom for the Problem: The Weight of Knowledge

"But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased." — Daniel 12:4 (KJV)

Note: This is so true. We got fat because the tech side increased our knowledge.

Time To Get Sheared

As I get older in my Christian faith, I realize I have simply grown fat in my sheep coat. With podcasts, YouTube, YouVersion, and apps, the Word of God is always at my fingertips. Church is more accessible than ever through live streaming and endless revivals available online and offline, but all this access has just made my sheep coat heavy. It is easy to get comfortable in the pasture, soaking up every sermon and verse, but we eventually become so well-fed and weighed down by the wool that we can no longer move effectively for the Master. Our coats have grown too big, and now it is time to shear them off and get busy.

• The Reality: If we are just consuming and never contributing, we become spiritually heavy.

• The Conviction: God didn't call us to just be fat sheep in the fold; He called us to be laborers in the harvest. Spiritual growth without service is just weight.

📜 Wisdom for the Solution: The Shepherd's Shears

"But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves." — James 1:22 (KJV)

The Shepherd’s Shears

Understanding that God trims us down so we can move faster and farther for Him. God didn't give you all that knowledge just so you could sit on it. He gave it to you so you could use it to help others find their way to the Shepherd. Don't be a sheep that is too heavy to move for the Master. Let Him shear away the excess so you can finally get to work in the harvest!

Here are three ways to start the shearing process today:

1. Identification: Look at your calendar. If you have five hours of study scheduled but zero hours of service, you are becoming top-heavy. Find one person or one ministry to pour into this week.

2. Application: Take the last sermon you heard and find a way to live it out. Knowledge is only power when it is applied. If you learned about peace, go be a peacemaker in a broken situation.

3. Distribution: Share the Gospel with someone who hasn't heard it. The wool you have grown is meant to clothe others. Don't keep the warmth of the Word to yourself while the world freezes.

Being sheared for service isn't always comfortable, but it is necessary. It is time to take all that knowledge and all that prayer and pour it back out into a world that is starving for the truth. Don't just sit there getting heavy. Get out there and get to work!

"A sheep’s value isn't found in how much wool it can keep, but in how much it can give; for a sheep that is never sheared eventually becomes a burden to itself and useless to the Shepherd." — David

📜 Wisdom for the Voice

"My heart is inditing a good matter: I speak of the things which I have made touching the king: my tongue is the pen of a ready writer." — Psalm 45:1 (KJV)

The Strategic Shift: Intentional Silence & System Obstacles

Our numbers reflect a strategic pause. We intentionally did not "push" book sales, aligning with our focus on "Living Simply" rather than chasing metrics. Additionally, we faced external logistical hurdles. The State of California is currently upgrading its inmate communication system, which severely limits our direct access to the jails.

• The Jail Obstacle: We were only able to send 27 emails and letters through the jail system this month due to these statewide upgrades.

• The Response: We do not force doors; we wait for them to open. While the digital lines were down, we focused on preparations for the next release season.

📈 Verified Data (The Metrics)

Note: All statistics below are YTD for 2026 (Jan-Feb). At the end of the year, we will report both 2026 YTD and Total Organization Stats (Est. 2025).

Global Reach & Impressions

• Total Reach/Impressions: Approximately 21,500 across all platforms.

• Pinterest: 11,240 Impressions

• X (formerly Twitter): 5,300 Impressions

• Facebook: 3,500 Views

• Instagram: 1,500 Reach

Engagement & Action

• Website Traffic: 323 Active Users visited the site.

• Social Interactions: 439 engagements on Pinterest and 222 interactions on Instagram.

• Link Clicks: 150 clicks on Facebook and 96 clicks on Instagram.

📧 The Ministry of the Pen (Email)

• Volume Sent: 795 emails.

• Opened: 273.

• Clicked: 48.

• Bounced: 34.

📚 The Library (Books/Amazon)

• Total Distribution (Purchases): 1,781 people have purchased the Paperback or Kindle versions to date.

• Sales Impact: Sales were under $100 for this period. This was expected as I did not actively push the books.

🚀 The Upcoming Launch: A New Chapter

We are preparing for the release of The Space Between Our Hands: The Two ‘Yes’ and the Thousand ‘I Will’s’, scheduled for just after February 14th. In the final stages of editing, I felt led to add one more crucial chapter based on what I learned during my marriage retreat. A local pastor made a statement about the ring on the hand, and I wrote this down. It has now become a core chapter titled "The Golden Circle: 8 Rings to a Lifetime of Love."

The 8 Rings (Subchapters):

1. The Vision Ring: The Spark of Promise and Preparation

   
   

   Lay the essential groundwork for your future through intentional planning and honest communication about your shared dreams. Scripture: Prepare thy work without, and make it fit for thyself in the field; and afterwards build thine house. (Proverbs 24:27, KJV)

2. The Covenant Ring: The Sacred Beginning

   
   

   Mark the official sealing of your lifelong partnership with a public declaration and a sacred promise before God.

   
   

   Scripture: What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder. (Mark 10:9, KJV)

3. The Unveiling Ring: Discovering the Depths of Your Beloved

   
   

   Move beyond the honeymoon to explore your spouse's everyday reality, embracing their unique habits and hidden strengths.

   
   

   Scripture: Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend. (Proverbs 27:17, KJV)

4. The Warrior Ring: Embracing Challenges with Unyielding Faith

   
   

   Fight for your marriage by navigating trials with resilience, forgiveness, and an unwavering commitment to your vows.

   
   

   Scripture: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. (Ephesians 4:32, KJV)

5. The Fire Ring: Reigniting Passion and Rediscovering Joy

   
   

   Intentionally bring back the romance and excitement that daily routines may have dimmed through creative reconnection.

   
   

   Scripture: Let thy fountain be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of thy youth. (Proverbs 5:18, KJV)

6. The Legacy Ring: Cultivating Shared Visions and Prosperity

   
   

   Build a powerful future hand-in-hand by aligning your financial goals, career growth, and family aspirations.

   
   

   Scripture: The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty. (Proverbs 21:5, KJV)

7. The Beacon Ring: Sharing Your Wisdom with Others

   
   

   Allow your seasoned journey to become a roadmap for others, sharing your triumphs and trials to inspire younger couples.

   
   

   Scripture: As iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend. (Proverbs 27:17, KJV)

8. The Story Ring: Crafted in Love and Sealed for Forever

   
   

   Wear your ring as a constant, living symbol of the specific, sacred vows and unique story you share together.

   
   

   Scripture: What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder. (Mark 10:9, KJV)

"The ink on the page may dry, but the spirit in which it was written must remain wet with prayer, for only the Spirit can turn letters into life." — David

📜 Wisdom for the Harvest

"Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares." — Hebrews 13:2 (KJV)

The Strategic Pivot: The Silent Blessing

As we discussed in the "Christmas Lesson," our focus this year is Holistic Compassion. We are not sending people to the government; we are stepping in to be the hands and feet of Jesus. Last month, we went out into our local area to practice this "Silent Blessing."

The Seed: The Grocery Store

We helped two random individuals with acts of kindness. One interaction was simple: we met a need at a grocery store, simply looked at them and said, "God loves you," and moved on. We didn't ask for a name or a photo; we just planted the seed and let the Holy Spirit do the rest.

The Harvest: The Duffel Bag & The Taco Bell

The second encounter was different. I was heading to Walgreens when I saw a man and his child walking down the street. The gentleman was pushing a grocery cart with a backpack and some clothes, but what caught my attention was the military duffel bag inside.

I circled the parking lot and tracked them down at a Taco Bell. They were sitting in the back; the young boy was crying, and the father was trying his best to comfort him.

• The Ministry of Presence: I didn't just hand them money. I went over, asked if I could order them some food, and we sat down and ate at Taco Bell together. I listened to his story.

• The Crisis: He had just been kicked out of his apartment down the street because his disability check had been deposited into the wrong account. He was a veteran with a General Discharge, doing his best to survive.

• The Action: We started making phone calls immediately. Within 15 minutes, another organization came over to assist. They were able to move the family to a hotel for a week and then successfully transfer them to the Veterans Village of Glendale Apartments.

• The Fruit: The best part is not just the housing. They are now attending a local church in that area, and the boy is attending the church's school.

Note: We will be sharing the video of this testimony soon to encourage our partners.

Seed Distribution & Resource Development

• Digital Pastoral Care: We are continuing to encourage pastors across the United States by email and in prayer. We view their website and videos and see what events they have upcoming, so we know what to pray for. Then we send out the encouragement email on Tuesday. Local Fellowship, we are still taking out one pastor and their family to eat each month.

• Seed Distribution: 18 of My Books shipped via Amazon to inmates and their families.

• The Digital Seed: The Pando App Pilot

  In January, we initiated a strategic partnership with the Pando App for a 30-day pilot program to expand our reach within the digital mission field. This platform provides an unprecedented opportunity for impact, boasting a reach of over 1,049,346 inmates and an active presence on 664,936 inmate tablets across the United States, including 84 satellite campus churches. During this test phase, we uploaded the My 365 Prayer Book, several podcasts, and video teachings to gauge engagement and spiritual fruit.

  The preliminary results are remarkable: in just 30 days, our content received over 124,000 views with an average watch time exceeding 30 minutes. While the full analytical report—including salvations and comments—is forthcoming next month, the immediate data confirms that the men and women behind bars are hungry for the truth we are sharing. As we move forward, we face a significant "Frog" on our list: maintaining a dedicated channel costs $25,000 to $75,000. We are committing this need to the Lord in prayer, encouraged by the fact that the platform and its users are deeply resonating with our organization.

⛺ Camp Growth Update (The 2026 Mission)

We will discuss the full Camp Growth strategy at the upcoming Leaders meetings. Anyone is invited to attend; you can come in person or via Zoom.

Financials & Operations

• The Deposit: We have officially put the deposit down for two weeks of camp, starting July 10, 2026. We were blessed with nice donations that came in at just the right time.

• Board Agenda: We will discuss the full Camp Growth Projected Invoice and the detailed operational plans during the Closed March Board Meeting.

• Risk Management: The next major hurdle is satisfying the state's insurance requirements. We must meet a $1 million liability insurance requirement to host a camp in CA. I am currently working with K&K Insurance to review different "bundled" insurance options.

Digital Readiness (Website)

• Status: The Camp Growth website is close to completion. I am currently finalizing the front page, adding the packing list, and integrating the necessary forms.

• Strategy: The goal for this year is to keep it simple. We will make adjustments for next year based on the specific needs of our Northern area.

Scheduled Leadership Camp Growth Meetings:

• Schedule: 1:00 PM (One-on-One with Camp Director) | 2:00 PM (Camp Growth Meeting)

• February 28th – YWAM (I’ll be in Texas to be with my dad—he needs me right now.)

• March 28th – Grateful Bean Coffee House

• April 25th – YWAM

• May 9th & 30th

• June 6th & 27th

"We plant the seed in the grocery aisle, but God grows the harvest in the hearts of those we might never see again; our job is simply to open our hands." — David

📜 Wisdom for Stewardship

"For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?" — Luke 14:28 (KJV)

The Financial Pivot: Switching to Tithe.ly

We have officially switched to Tithe.ly. I have waited over a year to make the switch. They have lower fees, and their features are much better than the rest. Also, they have features I want to use later as we grow into a bigger organization.

Strategic Planning: The March Board Meeting

The upcoming March meeting is critical for the future of our organization. We have several key items on the agenda:

• Annual Requirements: We need to update our annual requirements, which is easy, and we need to discuss the Founder Donation Contribution. If you would like to talk about it early, please feel free to reach out to me.

• Oversight: The Treasurer is tracking all money matters and accounts.

Agreements & Contracts: The Sponsorship Decision

I was approached by four companies wanting a contract with the Growth Journey Podcast. Basically, they want a 30-second podcast clip about their product sponsorship. In return, the podcast will also get views and $1,000 per month, plus revenue from sales.

• The Offer: However, we would have to do one 45-minute podcast per week. Second, we would have to spend $100 on ads per month, which means $25 per episode.

• The Decision: If I had the time and paid staff, yes, that is money in the account. However, I don't have time. I need to focus on the mission of helping others and serving others. That said, all four companies were similar, just with a difference in the money. Maybe in a couple of years, I will come back to this after we have grown bigger.

• The Pivot: That said, they came back asking for an agreement. What does that mean? Very simple: we just add them to the podcast and website, and when listeners click on the special link and make a purchase, we get a percentage of what they bought. This will offset the administrative cost. No comment on my part.

🗳️ Voting Item: The Organization Milestone Matrix

Strategic Foresight for 2026-2027

As we prepare for our 2027 "Building" phase, I have established a Milestone Activation Matrix to ensure we grow with integrity and biblical stewardship.

"Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase." — Proverbs 3:9 (KJV)

This roadmap serves as our financial governor. We will not incur new expenses until specific revenue milestones are met. Key highlights include:

• Treasure Only Policy: We are utilizing a strict "Chase Debit Only" system for all ministry expenses to ensure a 100% clean audit trail with zero personal account mixing.

• Board Protection: Before the Board transitions to "Governing" status ($10k mark), we will activate D&O Insurance to protect your personal liability.

• Intentional Kingdom Reciprocity: We are not just an organization that receives; we are an organization that sows. By the $7,500 Milestone, we will begin formal monthly support of other missionaries and faith-based organizations. We want to be found faithful with the "firstfruits" of our increase.

• Sustainability: Support staff and professional systems (QuickBooks/CPA audits) will be triggered by revenue to prevent burnout and ensure compliance.

This roadmap allows us to say "Yes" to growth only when the LORD provides the "Yes" through our revenue milestones. It removes the guesswork and replaces it with a disciplined, faith-based strategy.

Note: While funds may start slow, we expect them to "hit hard" in years 3 and 4. We must be ready now.

"Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established." — Proverbs 16:3 (KJV)

I. PHASE ONE: FOUNDATION & SECURITY

• Activation: TREASURE ONLY

• Action: Strict use of Chase Debit card; zero personal account mixing. 100% audit trail.

• Activation: DIGITAL FORTRESS & STEWARDSHIP SEED

• Action: Secure cloud backup for curriculum. Purchase small ($10-$20) cards for volunteers.

• Activation: KINGDOM RECIPROCITY

• Action: Begin monthly donations to churches, missionaries, and faith-based organizations.

• Activation: BOARD GOVERNANCE

• Action: Board moves to "Governing." Activate D&O Insurance to protect Board members.

• Activation: RAINY DAY FUND

• Action: Lock 3 months of basic operating expenses into a separate reserve account.

II. PHASE TWO: GROWTH & OUTREACH

• Activation: INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

• Action: Bulk purchase/printing of Ministry Books, Letters, and Curriculum for Inmates.

• Activation: SCALING GENEROSITY

• Action: Increase the percentage of giving to missionaries and partner organizations.

• Activation: OPERATIONAL SUPPORT

• Action: Hire Part-Time Admin (10 hrs/week) to scale logistics and manage schedule.

• Activation: FINANCIAL REVIEW & MOBILE MINISTRY

• Action: CPA audit of "Treasure Only" records. Purchase branded logistics/book vehicle.

III. PHASE THREE: MATURITY & SUSTAINABILITY

• Activation: PROFESSIONAL SYSTEMS

• Action: Hire a Pro Bookkeeper and subscribe to QuickBooks Online.

• Activation: FOUNDER STABILITY

• Action: Board initiates a full-time, market-rate salary for the CEO/Founder.

• Activation: PHYSICAL OFFICE

• Action: Rent a small office only if the book inventory overflows the home or for counseling privacy.

"A vision without a budget is just a dream, but a budget without a vision is just math; we must have both to build a tower that stands." — David

The 2026 Outreach Mission Statement

"To provide holistic care to those in crisis by extending a helping hand in their time of need, serving as a tangible reminder that God still loves them, and paving the way for salvation and a connection to a local church family."

We act as a bridge, connecting people to local pastors and church families for long-term discipleship and community.