Ep. 52: James Doughty "Authentic"

12 ELEVEN PODCAST | THERE'S POWER IN AN ORDINARY TESTIMONYWhat if one of the most powerful testimonies isn't about what God rescued you FROM, but what God protected you FROM?I think sometimes we have a tendency to put pastors on a pedestal.We look at them as men who should have it all figured out. Men who shouldn't struggle with the same things we struggle with. Men who somehow have a different set of emotions, temptations, and battles than the rest of us.But here's the reality.Pastors are people, too.They're husbands. They're fathers. They're sons. They're friends. They're ordinary men who have been called by an extraordinary God. And just like you and me, they struggle.Today on the 12 ELEVEN Podcast, I have the privilege of sitting down with my pastor and friend, Pastor James Doughty.And if there's one word I would use to describe James, it's AUTHENTIC.James grew up in a Christian household with wonderful parents who followed Jesus. He gave his life to Jesus at an early age and recognized God's calling into ministry while he was still young.But that didn't mean life was without struggles. Like so many of us, James wrestled with finding his identity in sports, accomplishments, and the things this world tells us will make us somebody.And I love that about his story, because it reminds us that knowing Jesus doesn't mean we stop struggling. It means we have someone to turn to in the middle of our struggles.During our conversation, James mentioned that he sometimes feels like his testimony is a little bland.And I couldn't disagree more.You see, we often celebrate the testimonies of people who have been rescued from addiction, brokenness, prison, or a life of destruction. And we should! Those are incredible demonstrations of God's redeeming grace. But what about the man who grew up knowing Jesus? What about the man whose parents faithfully pointed him toward Christ? What about the man whom God protected from so many of the destructive paths this world has to offer?Isn't that just as powerful?Absolutely!Because the same grace that rescues a man from the pit is the grace that keeps another man from falling into it. One testimony demonstrates God's rescue. The other demonstrates God's protection. Both demonstrate His amazing grace.And that's what I love about today's conversation.James doesn't pretend to have all the answers. He doesn't present himself as someone who has arrived spiritually. He's simply a man who loves Jesus, loves people, and is doing his best to faithfully walk in the calling God has placed on his life. And isn't that what we're all called to do?Be faithful. Be obedient. Be authentic. And point people to Jesus.My prayer is that today's conversation encourages you to stop comparing your story to someone else's. You don't have to have a dramatic past to have a powerful testimony. If Jesus Christ has changed your life, you have a story worth telling.I'm excited to share this conversation with my pastor and friend, James Doughty.An ordinary man with an extraordinary calling.And a beautiful reminder that God's grace isn't just found in what He brings us out of, but also in what He lovingly keeps us from.

🎙️ 12 ELEVEN PODCAST | YOU ARE NOT ALONEWhat if you carried a secret for 3 plus decades? What if the pain from your childhood followed you into adulthood? Into your marriage? Into your relationships? Into every area of your life?What if you spent your entire life trying to be strong, trying to hold everything together, trying to convince everyone around you that you were okay?But deep down, you weren't.What happens when the strongest man in the room finally reaches a place where he can't do it anymore?Today on the 12 Eleven Podcast, I sit down with my friend JJ Salas, a United States Marine whose story is one of the most powerful reminders I've heard that you never know what someone else is carrying.JJ grew up in a divorced home without a father at a young age, searching for security, protection, identity, and a place to belong. The Marine Corps would become a significant part of his life, and as JJ puts it, the Marine Corps saved his life.But even the toughest Marine can't outrun the pain of his past. For decades, JJ carried wounds that nobody could see. Untreated trauma. PTSD. Fear. Anger. Shame. And a secret he kept buried for 37 years. These things led JJ to complete surrender on the side of a mountain in Arkansas. Sometimes the very place where we finally surrender is the place where God begins to do His greatest work.This conversation is about untreated trauma. Its about forgiveness. It’s about rehab. It's about the importance of counseling, seeking wise counsel, and having the courage to tell someone you're not okay...and so much more. But more than anything, it's about the incredible grace of God.One thing I've learned in my own walk with Jesus is that we were never created to carry the weight of this world alone. And sometimes the strongest thing a man can ever do is admit that he needs help.I believe there are people reading this right now who are carrying things they've never told another living soul. Maybe it's something from your childhood. Maybe it's something you've done. Maybe it's something that was done to you. Maybe you've convinced yourself that nobody would understand.I want you to hear me today.You are not alone. You are not beyond the reach of God's grace. And your past does not have to define your future.JJ's story is raw. It's emotional. It's honest. And it's a beautiful reminder that God can bring healing into places we've spent a lifetime trying to hide.You don't have to keep fighting your battles in silence.I pray this conversation encourages someone to take that first step toward healing, forgiveness, and freedom.🎙️ 12 ELEVEN PODCAST Episode: YOU ARE NOT ALONE Guest: JJ SalasBecause sometimes the most powerful testimony isn't about how strong we are. It's about what happens when we finally admit we aren't strong enough and surrender it all to Jesus.Romans 5:8 "But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners." (NLT)#12ElevenPodcast #YouAreNotAlone #GodsGrace #Forgiveness #PTSD #Healing #FaithOverFear #Testimony #JesusChangesLives i want this one saved exactly as it is please.

Have you ever found yourself searching?Searching for purpose? Searching for peace? Searching for a place where you belong?Have you ever wanted a community of people you could trust enough to share the hard things? The struggles you hide? The battles nobody else knows you're fighting?If you've ever been there, whether you're a man or a woman, I want you to listen to today's episode of the 12 Eleven Podcast.Today, I'm introducing you to Keith Cromwell.Keith is a former Marine who spent years searching for what it really meant to be a man. He was looking for identity, strength, purpose, and peace. But like so many of us, he kept looking in places that could never satisfy him.Keith battled PTSD. He struggled with alcohol. He fought mental battles that left him searching for answers.But here's what makes his story so powerful.While Keith was searching for meaning, the Creator of the universe was pursuing him.During our conversation, Keith said something that stopped me in my tracks:"God cared enough about me to speak to me one night when I was at my lowest."Think about that.The God who created the heavens and the earth cared enough to meet one man in one of the darkest moments of his life.Have you ever been there?Have you ever felt like you were at the end of your rope? Like you had nothing left to give? Like you were surrounded by people but still completely alone?Maybe you've wondered whether your life really has a purpose. Maybe you've tried to numb the pain or carry everything on your own.I want you to hear this: You are not beyond the reach of Jesus Christ.And Keith's story doesn't stop there.One of my favorite parts of this conversation is what happened when Keith found a community of men who were serious about following Jesus.At 5 o'clock in the morning, at Buck Commander, a group of ordinary men gathered for Bible study.They weren't perfect men. They were men who needed grace just like the rest of us. But they were willing to open God's Word, be honest about life, and walk alongside one another.Through those relationships, Keith began to understand the difference between the world's definition of manhood and God's definition of manhood.The world says strength means handling everything yourself.Jesus teaches us to depend on Him.The world says hide your weakness.Jesus invites us to bring our burdens to Him.The world says your identity comes from what you accomplish or what others think about you.But Scripture teaches us that our identity is found in Christ.Keith discovered that biblical manhood wasn't about pretending to have it all together. It was about surrender, humility, accountability, obedience, and following Jesus alongside other men.And isn't that something we all need?People who will tell us the truth. People who will pray for us. People who will challenge us when we're headed in the wrong direction and help carry us when life gets heavy.We weren't created to do life alone.That's why this episode isn't just for men. It's for anyone searching for genuine spiritual community and a relationship with Jesus.Maybe you're listening today and you know what it feels like to keep searching, only to come up empty.Maybe you think you've gone too far, made too many mistakes, or wasted too many years.Keith's testimony reminds us that God sees us in those places. He knows our struggles, our failures, and the battles we never talk about.Luke 19:10 says, "For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost."That's the heart of this episode.Keith spent years searching for Jesus, but the beautiful truth is that Jesus was pursuing Keith.My prayer is that somewhere in Keith's story, you'll recognize a little of your own.Maybe today is the day you stop searching for peace in things that can't give it to you.And maybe today is the day you realize that Jesus knows your name, loves you, and wants a relationship with you.This is the 12 Eleven Podcast.

Have you ever felt stuck?Have you ever felt like you were on a carousel, going around and around, and you just didn’t know how to get off?Sometimes we get stuck going through the motions of life. We get in a rut. Days turn into weeks. Weeks turn into months. And before we know it, we look up and wonder, “How did I get here, and how do I get out?”But here’s the beauty of the grace of God:You can hit reset.You can turn around and run back to the Father.Today, the Lord reminded me of that in a very personal way.I haven’t put out an episode of the 12 Eleven Podcast in over 16 months. And this morning at church, the song Run to the Father came on.And something changed.The Lord reminded me that no matter how far away from Jesus you feel, you are only one turn away from running right back into the arms of the Father.That hit me hard.Because I knew there was something God had called me to do that I had stopped doing.This podcast.I could sit here and give you all the reasons why I stopped. I’ve been busy. Life changed. My career changed. There were other responsibilities and other things demanding my attention.But at the end of the day, those would just be excuses.There was some lack of obedience.There was some laziness.There was busyness.And the truth is, we should never become so busy doing life that we stop doing what God has called us to do.And I know God called me to do this.So today, I’m not going to sit here and make excuses. I’m not going to spend this episode apologizing for where I’ve been.I’m going to own it.And then I’m going to do something that the grace of God allows every single one of us to do.I’m hitting RESET.I gathered up my podcast equipment, brought it to my new office, set everything back up, sat down behind this microphone, and pressed record.And here we are.Season Two. Episode One. A new season of the 12 Eleven Podcast.And I cannot wait to see what God does with it.We’re going to bring people into this room and let them tell their stories. Stories of brokenness. Stories of redemption. Stories of failure. Stories of grace. Stories of people who were lost and Jesus found them. Stories of what happens when ordinary people encounter an extraordinary Savior.Because there is power in our testimony.We are going to testify to the goodness of Jesus Christ and remind people that the enemy does not get the final word.Jesus does.Maybe you’re listening today and you’ve been stuck too.Maybe there’s something God called you to do that you walked away from.Maybe you’ve been going through the motions.Maybe you feel like you’ve gotten too far away.Hear me:You are not too far away.Turn around.Run to the Father.His grace is still there.His arms are still open.And maybe today is your day to hit reset too.Welcome back to the 12 Eleven Podcast.Season Two starts right now.

“Welcome back to the 12 Eleven Podcast! I know it’s been a couple of months, and I just want to thank you for your patience and grace. My life has taken a new turn as I’ve stepped into a new career with Whitetail Properties Real Estate. While it’s been a season of transition, I’m incredibly excited to be back in the studio with you all.Today’s episode is one I’ve been looking forward to sharing. I’m honored to introduce you to a remarkable man of God—Pat Williams. At 85 years old, Pat has been walking faithfully with Jesus for over 50 years. His wisdom, his calm presence, and the way he carries himself are a powerful example of what it truly looks like to follow Christ.This conversation is filled with insight, encouragement, and the kind of spiritual depth that only comes from a lifetime of walking with the Lord. I pray that you’re as blessed by his story as I’ve been. Let’s dive in—this is one you don’t want to miss.”

Welcome back to the 12 Eleven Podcast. I’m here today with Bob Lane, and I’m honored to give him the space to share his story—what it truly looks like to build your life on a firm foundation. From the example set by his parents and grandparents, to the mentors and coaches who shaped him into the athlete and the man he is today, Bob’s life reflects the impact of steady, faithful guidance.He’s walked through the trials and triumphs of college football and the NFL, and now walks as a father who pours into his son, and as a husband who loves his wife as Christ loves the Church. When I look at Bob’s life, I see someone who has consistently walked with Jesus. And the fruit that’s come from that walk—it’s real, it’s beautiful, and it’s powerful.He’s someone I truly look up to, and I believe you’ll be just as encouraged as I am by his story. Because following Jesus—it isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being obedient.Man, what a powerful conversation. I pray that as you listen to Bob’s story, you are reminded that building your life on Jesus—the true firm foundation—is worth it. It doesn’t mean the road is easy, but it does mean you’re never walking it alone.From his upbringing, to football, to family life—Bob has shown us what steady, faithful obedience looks like in every season. And that’s the encouragement today: you don’t have to have it all together. You just have to say “yes” to Jesus, every day.Thank you for tuning in to the 12 Eleven Podcast. Until next time—keep walking, keep trusting, and keep standing firm. 

Welcome back to the 12 Eleven podcast. Today, I have the privilege of sitting down with Cole Sullivan, whose story is nothing short of miraculous.Cole was a lost child—one who ran, deeply wounded by his parents’ divorce. For 12 years, he tried to numb the pain, turning to drugs, alcohol, and anything that might make him feel different. His struggle with addiction finally led him to an Addiction Rehabilitation facility, but even then, doubts about God and Jesus consumed him, pushing him to search for answers. At the same time, a broken relationship with his father only added to his confusion and pain.But through it all, God never stopped chasing him. In Cole’s lowest moments, when he had nothing left—no answers, no control—he found one thing still within his grasp: willingness. Willingness to be sober. Willingness to change. Willingness to seek truth. And in February 2023, that willingness led him straight into the arms of Jesus Christ. He still had doubts just like the Disciples did, except this time Cole picked up his doubts and started to follow Jesus. Not only did he find salvation, but God also has since restored his relationship with his earthly father, proving that nothing is beyond redemption.Cole’s story is one of relentless pursuit—God’s pursuit of a son who was running, and a son who finally stopped and turned back home. I promise, this conversation will encourage and challenge you in ways you won’t expect. So let’s dive in.

Welcome back to the 12 Eleven podcast! Today, I’m joined by Greg Manley Jr., and we’re diving into his powerful journey with Jesus. Greg surrendered his life to Christ as a young boy, but without discipleship, he struggled to live a life truly worthy of the gospel. His story is one that many Christians will find deeply relatable, one of coming to Christ at an early age without instructions and discipleship on how to live that life out.  At the heart of Greg’s journey is the power of obedience—how God placed him in situations where stepping out in faith didn’t always make sense, yet the results were nothing short of amazing. As you listen, you’ll hear how obedience shaped his walk with Christ in ways he never expected. And whatever you do, don’t miss the ending. It’s not exactly in chronological order, but it was a pivotal moment of obedience that I believe many need to hear, it will leave you encouraged and inspired. I can’t wait for you to hear his story. Let’s dive in! 

Welcome back to the 12 Eleven podcast! Today, I’m joined by Shelly Hamilton, who shares her powerful story of moving from darkness to light. At a young age, Shelly faced the heartbreaking loss of her sister Angel in a tragic car accident. This deep pain, fueled by anger, led her into years of darkness, regret, and a dangerous belief that she was beyond saving. But God met Shelly right in her darkest moment—on a bathroom floor—and broke the chains of shame that had consumed her. That day, Shelly surrendered her life to Jesus and stepped into her true identity as a child of God. Inspired by the story of the woman at the well in John 4, Shelly reminds us that “change begins when you give your shame a place to go—nailing it to the cross—and embrace the love of Jesus.” I’m so excited for you to hear Shelly’s testimony of redemption and freedom. My prayer is that her story encourages you to know that your shame, too, has a place to go so you can walk in the freedom that only Jesus can bring.

Welcome back to the 12 Eleven podcast. Today marks a year since the loss of Tarver Braddock, a day that forever changed many lives. On this episode, we take time to reflect on what God has done since January 5, 2024. This is a reminder of His faithfulness, even in the darkest storms. Often, when we face unimaginable pain, it’s hard to see past the tragedy. Our eyes are clouded by sorrow, and we struggle to focus on Jesus and the miracles He’s working around us. But today, I invite you to join me as we recount some of the incredible ways God has moved through this devastating loss. These stories remind us that, even in the depths of grief, God’s faithfulness remains unwavering. As you listen, I encourage you to look back on your own life. Reflect on the times when God’s hand was at work, even if you couldn’t see it in the moment. My prayer is that this episode will renew your faith and remind you that He is present in every circumstance. Today, I give thanks to the Lord for revealing His purpose in this podcast and for the miracles He’s performed through Jesus Christ in the wake of this tragedy. Through the Tarver Braddock Foundation, lives are being touched, and hope is being restored. Please continue to pray for the Braddock family and all those affected by Tarver’s passing. Let’s lift them up and ask God to bring peace and comfort to their hearts. Father, we thank You for the ways You are working through this story, bringing beauty from ashes. We pray that this podcast draws people closer to You and glorifies Your name.