From Silent Struggle to Lasting Freedom

What do you do when life takes you down a road you never would have chosen?In this episode of Lasting Impact, Marc sits down with longtime pastor, leadership coach, and mentor Kirby Anderson to discuss his battle with prostate cancer and the lessons he learned about faith, surrender, and letting go of control.After more than a decade of lifestyle changes and managing his diagnosis, Kirby received news that changed everything. He and his wife, Gail, would have to uproot their lives and move to Houston for weeks of cancer treatment. Suddenly, the disciplined life he'd worked so hard to build was outside his control.Kirby shares what it was like to face uncertainty, endure proton radiation, and lean on God through some of his darkest moments. He also explains how shifting his focus from himself to others changed his entire perspective and strengthened his marriage, family, and faith.One question became central to his journey:"Father, what do I need to trust You for in this situation?"Whether you're facing an unexpected challenge, navigating leadership pressure, or walking through a season you never planned for, this conversation offers a powerful reminder that even when we can't control our circumstances, we can choose how we respond.

Success can look airtight from the outside, right up until it isn’t. Alfredo Madrid and I go back to the exact moments that shaped his life, starting with growing up in a Mexican family where English was his second language and the bigger challenge was cultural. We talk about the insecurity of not knowing how things “work,” the pressure of being the oldest, and how that discomfort can either shrink you or forge resilience.From there, Alfredo shares the mindset that’s powered his leadership in the mortgage industry and beyond: do it afraid, take the step, and figure it out on the way down. We dig into the difference between healthy preparation and the kind of over-preparation that becomes a cover for fear. If you’ve ever waited for the perfect timing, the perfect tools, or the perfect confidence, his diving board analogy will stick with you.Then the story turns. After years of growth and momentum, Alfredo describes a season where his identity was tied to performance, and an ambitious move triggered an overnight collapse. Team members didn’t come, debt piled up, and he faced a brutal internal question at a stoplight: maybe I’m not who I thought I was. What brought him back wasn’t just a new business strategy, but a new foundation and a real relationship with Jesus, marked by surrender, prayer, and peace before outcomes. This conversation isn't just about business. It's about identity, surrender, resilience, and discovering that your greatest setbacks may be the very thing God uses to reshape your life. If you've ever questioned your purpose, battled fear, or wondered whether God was still working in your story, I think this episode will encourage you. If it encourages you, would you do me a favor? Share this episode with someone who needs it. And if you're enjoying Lasting Impact, I'd be honored if you'd subscribe and leave a review. It helps more people discover these stories.

Josh Watson looked like he had it all together—family man, career, church on Sundays. But behind the scenes, he was stuck in a cycle he couldn’t break.It wasn’t until his son called him out that everything changed. What followed wasn’t just a turning point—it was full surrender. And from that surrender came real, lasting freedom.Now Josh helps others find the same through prayer, community, and hope. This episode is for anyone carrying something in silence. You’re not alone—and freedom is possible.

Gabe George, son of Pastor Willie George, spent years chasing purpose in the shadow of ministry success. From unexpected church leadership to planting a church in L.A., he believed achievement would bring clarity. Instead, it led to burnout, surrender—and ultimately, freedom.In this vulnerable conversation, Gabe shares how letting go of control became the beginning of real identity. If you've ever wrestled with validation, calling, or feeling like you're not enough, this episode will meet you right where you are.

Former NASA Chief of Staff Gabe Sherman opens up about the day his title vanished—and how it forced him to rethink everything. From high-level meetings at NASA to standing unemployed in his kitchen on Inauguration Day, Gabe shares a raw, honest journey about identity, purpose, and what really matters.This episode is for anyone who's ever asked: Who am I if I’m not what I do?

Dave Jewett, One Degree Ministries' founder, shares his wisdom on finding your "one degree" – the unique direction where your God-given design meets eternal purpose. At 75, Dave's daily impact showcases how aligning with God's specific focus leads to lifelong energy and success.This conversation provides insights for those seeking clarity, approaching retirement, or wanting to live more intentionally. Start your journey towards a focused and fulfilling life by discovering your one degree.

Brandon Murphy of Nelson Auto Group shares his secret to running a successful business and raising exceptional children: vision-casting.Guided by an early divine vision, Murphy now leads 26 LLCs in automotive dealerships, real estate, software training, and auto wash businesses.With a parenting philosophy centered on becoming rather than abstaining, Murphy demonstrates how vision-casting transforms parenting and leadership.In business, Murphy prioritizes integrity and people, emphasizing experience over profit.Listen to learn how applying Murphy's wisdom can revolutionize your approach to leadership.

Join Mark Delaney and Ty Andler for a transformative discussion on finding purpose without fixing yourself first. Discover how modern men often struggle without the structured teams they had in youth sports, and learn how connecting with others on a mission can lead to breakthroughs.Both Mark and Ty share their personal journeys with vulnerability, revealing how finding teammates who embrace your gifts, flaws and all, can change everything. They challenge the idea that men must resolve their issues before contributing meaningfully, proposing instead that serving others and joining a team can help you find your rightful place in the game.

Lee Martin, co-founder of Mountain Men, reveals how personal crisis led to creating a transformative ministry. Combining physical challenge, spiritual formation, and brotherhood, Mountain Men addresses modern men's passivity by fostering authenticity and growth. With a focus on culture rather than curriculum, the ministry has grown organically, impacting hundreds of men annually through wilderness experiences. Lee's insights on fatherhood and unconditional love further emphasize the power of connection and lasting impact across generations.

Andy shares his arrest's pivotal role in breaking through his resistance, ultimately leading to a life dedicated to service. Through blending ministry and business, he challenges us to reconsider how God views our work, and offers practical strategies for building a successful real estate business from the ground up.In a touching reflection on fatherhood, Andy reveals his dedication to leading by example, modeling faith, and investing in the next generation through action rather than mere instruction. This powerful conversation will inspire you to break through limiting beliefs and embrace your true potential for making a lasting impact.