- 17
- Episodes
- 23
- Ratings
- Monthly
- Cadence
- 2025
- First episode
About ASCEND
Ascend Podcast with Justin Graham A space to talk about faith, leadership, and the challenge to step into the purpose God has for us. Psalm 24:3-4 asks, “Who can ascend the mountain of the Lord?” The answer: “The one with clean hands and a pure heart.” That’s what Ascend Podcast is all about - becoming that person. Each episode is an invitation to rise higher, lead well, and walk boldly in God’s calling. Join host Justin Graham as he unpacks what it means to lead with integrity, pursue spiritual growth, and step fully into the life God designed for you.
- Publisher
- Justin Graham
- Category
- religion & spirituality
- Language
- en
- Explicit
- No
- First episode
- 17 Feb 2025
- Latest episode
- 27 Oct 2026
Latest episodes
17 episodes in the feed.
27 Oct 2026
Love = Truth
What does it really mean to love someone enough to tell them the truth? In Season 2, Episode 9 of ASCEND, Pastor Justin Graham sits down with Walters State Head Basketball Coach Jerry Nichols for a conversation about leadership, adversity, faith, and calling greatness out of others. From growing up in inner-city Memphis to coaching at the highest levels, Coach Nichols shares how one person believing in him changed his life and why he's committed to doing the same for the next generation. They unpack what it means to lead with both love and truth, why adversity reveals who you really are, and how the people around you can either challenge you to grow or allow you to stay where you are. The question is: Who loves you enough to tell you the truth and call you higher? This is ASCEND. Let's go higher.
29 Sept 2026
Putting On Weight
Not all weight is bad. Some weight makes us stronger; other weight wears us down and keeps us from becoming who God has called us to be. In Episode 8 of Ascend, Adam Noe joins Pastor J to talk about the pressures of life, the unexpected things that can make us want to tap out, and how to tell what we should carry—and what it’s time to set down. Looking at Elijah’s moment after a huge victory, they discuss why even people with great purpose need to catch their breath. Together, they challenge us to take an honest look at how we spend our time, what we keep saying yes to, and whether we’re making room for the things that give us life: God’s Word, prayer, worship, family, rest, and serving. Because saying yes to too many things can leave us overwhelmed—and saying no to the right things can keep us from growing. This week, write down how you’re actually spending your time. Ask God what weight you need to shed so you can grow stronger in the things that matter. You were placed here for a purpose. Don’t miss it because you’re carrying the wrong weight.
28 Jul 2026
Next Gen Discipleship
Who are you bringing up with you as you ascend? In this episode of ASCEND, Pastor Justin and Pastor Melissa challenge us to rethink discipleship. This conversation is about far more than parenting or the next generation—it’s about every person God has placed within our reach. Looking at Joshua and Judges 2, they unpack the sobering reality that an entire generation grew up not knowing the Lord because what had been experienced wasn’t intentionally passed on. Discipleship isn’t optional—it’s the Great Commission. Jesus never built a classroom. He built people. He walked slowly, gave His time, shared His life, called out purpose, and invited others to follow Him. Real discipleship happens around dinner tables, in homes, at work, at church, and in everyday moments. Whether you’re raising children, mentoring a coworker, investing in students, leading a volunteer team, or simply making room for someone in your life, God has called you to pour into others. We aren’t reservoirs—we’re rivers. What God pours into us is meant to flow through us. This episode is a challenge to slow down, make room for people, and intentionally raise up those who will go farther than we ever could. Records are meant to be broken. Give someone your shoulders to stand on—not just your footsteps to follow. Challenge: Rise higher… and invite someone else to climb with you.
30 Jun 2026
Iron vs. Plastic
What does it really mean to "act like a man?" In Episode 6 of the Ascend Podcast, Justin Graham is joined by Lane Taylor for an honest conversation about biblical manhood and what it looks like to lead with courage, conviction, and humility in today's culture. Together, they unpack what Scripture says about being a man, the power of brotherhood, why accountability is essential for growth, and how receiving correction can shape you into the leader God has called you to be. They also explore the responsibility men have to lead their homes, influence the next generation, and surround themselves with people who sharpen them—not soften them. In this episode, you'll discover: What it means to "act like a man" according to Scripture Why iron sharpens iron—and how to find the right brotherhood The five characteristics of a godly man How accountability produces growth Whether you're becoming iron... or plastic This episode isn't about becoming culture's version of a man. It's about becoming the man God created you to be. It's time to come up higher.
26 May 2026
Distractions
God has called you higher — but the enemy will always try to distract you from your assignment. In this episode of Ascend, Pastor Justin and Pastor Carl unpack how distractions are one of the greatest weapons the enemy uses against believers. From Nehemiah rebuilding Jerusalem while facing criticism and opposition, to Peter walking on water until fear shifted his focus, this conversation dives deep into what keeps us from fully stepping into our calling. Not every distraction looks bad. Some distractions are comfortable. Some are enjoyable. Some even look productive. But anything that pulls your focus away from what God values most can eventually become dangerous. Social media. Relationships. Fear. News. Politics. Finances. Success. Opportunities. Toxic voices. Sin. Even good things without boundaries. The enemy doesn’t want to destroy your purpose overnight — he wants to slowly distract you from it. This episode challenges you to identify what’s competing for your attention, set boundaries, develop spiritual discipline, and refocus on what matters most. Because there is nothing more satisfying than living on purpose for Jesus. “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” — 1 Peter 5:8 Stay focused. Get in your Word. Pray with purpose. Remove the distractions. Ascend higher.
28 Apr 2026
Lap 2
What happens after you say yes to Jesus? Salvation is the starting line — sanctification is the second lap. In this episode, Pastor Carl and Pastor J unpack one of the most misunderstood “church words” in Christianity: sanctification. It’s not about religion, perfection, or rule-following. It’s the daily pursuit of becoming more like Christ — being set apart for God’s purpose and learning how to stay in the race. Through personal stories, Scripture, and honest conversation, this episode challenges listeners to embrace the process, press into truth, and understand that faith is not a sprint — it’s a lifelong journey. You’ll hear conversations around: What sanctification actually means Why Christianity was never meant to be easy The importance of truth, holiness, and spiritual growth How the Holy Spirit helps us endure the hard seasons Why finishing well matters just as much as starting well No matter where you are in your faith journey, there is always another step to take. Where do you need to start ascending?
31 Mar 2026
Next Gen
On this episode of the Ascend Podcast, Justin Graham and Melissa Graham bring a powerful conversation on the next generation—and why how you ascend matters more than you think. From parenting to pastoring, they unpack what it looks like to call others higher while continuing to grow yourself.Because the truth is—you were never meant to ascend alone. In a culture full of noise, this generation isn’t disengaged… they’re searching for truth. And when truth is spoken boldly, it changes everything. This episode challenges you to: Lead with intention and integrity Speak life into the next generation Live a faith that’s visible beyond Sunday Raise the standard—and help others reach it Because how you live today will shape who rises tomorrow. Run with us. Ascend together.
24 Feb 2026
Now What?
“You Were Running So Well — Now What?” Pastor J + Pastor Carl What happens after the encounter? After the conference, the altar moment, the decision, the breakthrough… now what? In this powerful episode, Pastor J and Pastor Carl talk about what it really means to walk out your faith after a life-changing moment with God. An encounter is powerful — but transformation happens in the days that follow. Monday morning matters. Hebrews 12 reminds us to strip off every weight and the sin that so easily entangles us, and fix our eyes on Jesus. But many believers find themselves slipping back into the very things God set them free from. Why? Because freedom requires partnership — God does His part, and we must do ours. This episode dives into: • Why the real battle often begins after the encounter • How to avoid getting re-entangled in old habits and strongholds • The importance of accountability, community, and replacing old patterns • Dealing with the root, not just trimming the surface • Sanctification — the journey of continually ascending and becoming more like Christ • What to do when Monday doesn’t feel spiritual • How to stay free from anxiety, addiction, depression, and destructive cycles • Why isolation is dangerous and brotherhood matters • What to do when you stumble — and how to get back up and keep climbing The enemy wants you isolated, tangled, and defeated — but God calls you to keep ascending. If you’ve ever asked: “I had an encounter with God… but how do I walk this out?” — this episode is for you. Freedom is possible. Growth is possible. Don’t quit. Keep climbing. Get connected. Stay rooted. Keep ascending.
27 Jan 2026
Check Your Circle
Season 2 of the Ascend Podcast launches with a powerful and timely conversation around one foundational question: Who are you following? In Episode 1, Check Your Circle, Justin Graham and Karl Kincaid unpack what it truly means to follow—not casually, not culturally, but intentionally and biblically. Following isn’t drifting, doing your own thing, or keeping Jesus as one option among many. Real following requires alignment—moving when He moves, turning when He turns, and matching His pace. The conversation highlights that while Jesus is the ultimate one we follow, God has also placed people in our lives to help guide, sharpen, and model faith. The problem arises when we imitate voices, lifestyles, or ideologies that are not rooted in Christ. If you follow someone, you will eventually imitate them—whether you intend to or not. Pastor Carl shares a compelling personal testimony, reflecting on how the example of others shaped his early life, the impact of misguided influence, and how God ultimately used Scripture, family, and community to call him back. His story points to the truth of “Train up a child in the way they should go” and how God’s call can resurface even after seasons of drifting. In 2008, Pastor Carl clearly heard the call of God on his life—reminding us that God calls everyone, but it’s our responsibility to choose whether we will follow. Justin emphasizes that everyone has a ministry. The real question is whether we will follow God’s call—or continue doing our own thing. Following Jesus requires denying self, a concept many struggle with today. We are often quick to distance ourselves from others, yet slow to disown our own flesh, pride, and desires. Jesus’ words in Mark 8:34 challenge us to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him. The episode also explores the danger of isolation and unhealthy circles. The wrong pack can quietly lead us off course, into confusion, compromise, or spiritual “lala land.” Influence matters. The blind leading the blind only creates more damage. Integrity, character, and trust must define the people we allow to lead us—and we must be honest about whether those voices are truly following Christ behind the scenes. At the same time, the hosts clarify an important balance: we are called to reach sinners, not follow them. Jesus modeled this perfectly—strong enough in His identity to lift others up without being pulled down. As followers of Christ, we must know who we are, walk in confidence, and rely on the Holy Spirit to empower us to live differently. The conversation challenges listeners to evaluate modern distractions—social media, trending voices, ideologies, and even AI-driven influence—that subtly shape beliefs and behaviors. Many are intentional about who they follow online, yet far less intentional about following Jesus with the same passion. The episode closes with a strong call to stay connected to the local church. Following Christ was never meant to be done alone. We need pastors, community, Life Groups, and spiritual accountability. The local church keeps us grounded in the Word, protects us from offense, and helps us remain teachable. Correction, when rooted in love and Scripture, is not rejection—it’s discipleship. Check your circle. Check who you’re following. Align everything with the Word of God—because nothing trumps truth. This season begins with a clear challenge: Go all in with Christ. No lukewarm faith. No drifting. Follow Jesus—together.
25 Nov 2025
Episode 7 - I Don't Care Anymore
In this episode, Justin unpacks Philippians 3:7–14 and the freedom that comes when we finally stop letting our past define our present. Paul’s words, “forgetting what is behind and pressing on,” aren’t about pretending our past never happened—they’re about refusing to give it control over our future. He dives into the truth about memory, nostalgia, pain, and why some things are worth releasing. You’ll learn what the Bible actually means by “forget,” how to overlook what once held you back, and how worship, prayer, and God’s Word become weapons that pull you forward. If you’ve been battling old mistakes, old mindsets, or old memories, this episode will speak directly to you. There is no limit to what God wants to do in your life—if you’re willing to stop caring for the things that keep you stuck and press toward the prize. Listen now and take a step higher with God.
1 Oct 2025
Episode 6 - Trust Issues with Matt Cahoon
In this powerful and transparent conversation, Matt Cahoon opens up about what life looks like when the picture-perfect model of success collides with real questions of identity, grief, and trust. From the outside, Matt’s life seemed ideal—career, family, health. But his journey led him into a season that forced him to ask: Who am I? Am I a husband, a dad, or something more? Matt vulnerably shares the tragic story of losing his wife, child, and unborn child—and how that loss shook the very foundation of his faith. Yet, through pain and questions, God has been faithful to restore, bring healing, and write a new chapter of purpose and hope in his life. He takes us through Death Valley, California—both physically and spiritually—unpacking how the words of Psalm 23reshaped his understanding of trust: Walking through the shadow instead of settling in it Recognizing the light beyond the darkness Finding both protection and comfort in God’s presence This episode will challenge and encourage you if you’ve ever struggled to trust God again, battled grief, or wrestled with unmet expectations. Matt shares: Why solitude can slip into isolation if you’re not careful How community plays a vital role in healing Why grief is unique, but perseverance is possible Practical advice for navigating trauma, betrayal, and loss “You can’t heal what you don’t reveal.” – Matt Cahoon If Matt Cahoon can learn to trust God again—so can you.
26 Aug 2025
Episode 5 - I Need To Catch My Breath
In this episode, Justin Graham gets real about the moments in life that knock the breath out of us—times of anxiety, overwhelm, and fear that leave us asking, “What am I going to do?” Through personal stories and a powerful look at the life of Elijah, Justin reminds us that even heroes of the faith faced exhaustion, fear, and moments of wanting to give up. We discover that Elijah—who called down fire from heaven and outran a chariot—also felt crushed under pressure when Jezebel’s threat took the breath out of him. Yet God met him not in the chaos, but in the whisper, reminding him that he wasn’t alone and that his purpose wasn’t finished. Justin draws out practical truths: - You’re not alone—real life change happens in relationships, not isolation. - Fear and anxiety steal joy—but gratitude flips the script. - Gratitude vs. anxiety—your brain can’t hold both at once, so thankfulness becomes a weapon against fear. - Trust God over feelings—our strength and provision come from Him, not our own control. The challenge of this episode is simple but life-changing: put gratitude into practice, fix your eyes on God’s promises, and keep climbing. Your breath, your peace, and your joy are coming back.
24 Jun 2025
Episode 4 - Don't Tell Me What To Do
In this episode of ASCEND, Justin tackles the tension we all feel when it comes to accountability. We say we want to grow—as parents, leaders, and individuals—but when someone challenges us, our instinct is often resistance: “Don’t tell me what to do.” Through a personal story of being called out in a tough season, Justin shares how honest accountability—paired with the conviction of the Holy Spirit—led to transformation. We’ll explore: Why we push back against correction The difference between insanity and growth How accountability is key to rising to the next level If you’ve been stuck in a cycle and know something has to change, this episode is for you. There is more in you—and accountability might just be the key to unlocking it.
27 May 2025
Episode 3 - Talk Is Cheap
We love God because He loved us first. In this episode, Justin gets real about why choosing Jesus daily matters—and how saying no to sin is something we get to do. He breaks down how discipline, the Word, and local church community help keep us focused and fired up for what matters most.
29 Apr 2025
Episode 2 - Train Naked
Episode 2 of the Ascend Podcast is here — Train Naked. Justin pulls no punches: if you want to ascend, it’s time to strip off what’s weighing you down and get serious about discipline. No shortcuts. No excuses. This is about training your life for the things that last.
18 Feb 2025
Ascend - Episode 1
Hosted by Justin Graham, the Ascend Podcast is a call to rise to a higher standard of living and pursue God’s intended purpose for our lives. With a passion for integrity and personal growth, Justin—husband, father, and lead pastor of The Avenue Church—challenges listeners to go further in life and faith. Rooted in Psalm 24:3-4, Ascend explores what it means to have clean hands and a pure heart before God, moving beyond religion into a life of holiness and purpose. Through powerful conversations and biblical insights, this podcast will inspire you to embrace the journey of transformation, align with God’s presence, and reach your full potential. Let’s go higher. Let’s ascend.
17 Feb 2025
ASCEND - COMING SOON!
Hosted by Justin Graham, the Ascend Podcast is a call to rise to a higher standard of living and pursue God’s intended purpose for our lives. Mark Your Calendars : Feb 18- LAUNCH DAY! Rooted in Psalm 24:3-4, Ascend explores what it means to have clean hands and a pure heart before God, moving beyond religion into a life of holiness and purpose.
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- Apple Podcasts (US)
- 5.0 / 5
- 15 ratings
- Spotify
- 5.0 / 5
- 8 ratings
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