Creating The Future with Brent Simpson

Our Summer Series continues as Dr. Brent Simpson sits down with Pastor Keren Emmanuel, Riverview Location Pastor at ARISE Church, for a conversation about identity, calling, family, ministry, and the unexpected places where God meets us.
And if there's one thing you should know about Pastor Keren, it's that if Denzel Washington is in it, he's probably watching it. In the words of Denzel himself, "My man!"
Born and raised on the east side of Florida to Haitian parents, Pastor Keren grew up in the projects in a strict Christian household. His father was a pastor, and Keren describes himself as a quiet kid who followed the rules and mostly kept to himself. His childhood was filled with church, playing outside, video games, and being surrounded by faith.
But while Pastor Keren grew up around God, he eventually realized that knowing about God wasn't the same as knowing Him personally.
College became a very different season. Pastor Keren played football, began partying, and found himself trying to numb what he was feeling internally. Eventually, he dropped out of college and returned home, unsure of what his future would look like.
Then God met him in one of the most unexpected places: on a forklift at BJ's.
At the time, his girlfriend, now his wife, Erica Emmanuel, had faithfully continued inviting him to church. What followed was a radical encounter with Jesus that completely changed the direction of Pastor Keren's life. He shares what it looked like to surrender his life to Christ, discover his call to ministry, and begin walking out that calling one step at a time.
Pastor Keren began serving in ministry as a volunteer in 2010 before stepping into full-time ministry in 2012. Through the years, he's learned to navigate the highs and lows of ministry while recognizing God's grace in every season. He also looks back on an unforgettable moment in youth ministry that continues to mark him today.
His ministry journey began in Englewood, Florida, but eventually God began opening a door to ARISE Church. Dr. Brent reached out to Pastor Keren to talk about youth ministry, and Pastor Keren's answer was no. More than once.
But then Dr. Brent asked him a question that caused him to think differently about the opportunity: "What is holding you back?"
That question became part of a journey that would ultimately bring Pastor Keren to ARISE Church.
After serving in several different roles, Pastor Keren now leads as the Riverview Location Pastor. One of the things he loves most about ARISE is that serving here continually challenges him to grow, both as a leader and as a follower of Jesus.
And if you think you have Pastor Keren figured out, there are a few more chapters to the story. Before becoming the pastor many know today, he had a punk rock skater phase and even stepped into the world of MMA fighting.
From growing up as a pastor's kid to walking away from what he knew, encountering God on a forklift, and eventually saying yes to a calling he initially resisted, Pastor Keren's story is a reminder that God knows how to meet us exactly where we are and lead us into a future we never could have planned for ourselves.
Do you have a question for Pastor Keren Emmanuel? Email us at info@myarisechurch.com
🔗 Connect with Dr. Brent Simpson
🌐 Brent Simpson: www.BrentSimpson.com
🏡 ARISE Church: www.MyAriseChurch.com
📱 Instagram: @DrBrentSimpson
📘 Facebook: Dr. Brent Simpson on Facebook
🎙️ Creating the Future Podcast: Creating the Future Podcast

Our Summer Series continues as Dr. Brent Simpson sits down with Pastor Josh Jordan for a conversation about family, faith, sports, ministry, and the moments when God's plans took his life in a completely different direction.
First, we learn one very important thing about Pastor Josh: he loves sushi!
Pastor Josh shares what it was like growing up, including eight years of his childhood spent on a farm. Homeschooled and raised with a love for the outdoors, some of his earliest memories include camping, horseback riding, playing sports, and being involved in church. His family eventually traded farm life for the suburbs, but their home continued to be anything but ordinary. Over the years, his family opened their doors to foster 19 children, giving Pastor Josh a unique perspective on family, compassion, and caring for others.
Sports were also a huge part of his life. He played quarterback on his football team, but baseball became his greatest passion as a teenager. Primarily playing shortstop, Pastor Josh eventually went to college to pursue baseball. But during his first year, God began changing the direction of his life.
Although he had given his life to the Lord at 12 years old, his first year of college became a defining season in his faith. He was filled with the Holy Spirit, heard God's voice in a way he never had before, and began asking questions that were bigger than baseball. God also set him free from addiction and began revealing a completely different purpose for his future.
That journey eventually took Pastor Josh to Brazil for a month-long missions trip where God met him in a powerful way. The math major who thought his future would revolve around numbers and baseball suddenly found himself being called into ministry.
Pastor Josh shares what it looked like to surrender his own plans and pursue God's call, even when the path didn't look anything like what he originally imagined.
His journey into full-time ministry began as a Kids Pastor, leading to some incredible and unforgettable moments serving children and families. Now, after 13 years in ministry, Pastor Josh reflects on what has surprised him most about serving people and the moments that have marked him along the way. One of the most meaningful was watching his own daughter experience the presence of God for herself.
He also shares the story of how God brought him to ARISE Church and why the presence of the Holy Spirit is one of the things he loves most about serving here.
And there's one more thing you probably wouldn't guess about Pastor Josh and his family: they're decorated horseback riders!
From farm life and foster siblings to baseball, missions, ministry, and family, Pastor Josh's story is a reminder that sometimes the future we imagine for ourselves looks completely different from the future God is preparing for us. When God calls, our job is to be willing to follow.
Do you have a question for Pastor Josh Jordan? Email us at info@myarisechurch.com
 
🔗 Connect with Dr. Brent Simpson
🌐 Brent Simpson: www.BrentSimpson.com
🏡 ARISE Church: www.MyAriseChurch.com
📱 Instagram: @DrBrentSimpson
📘 Facebook: Dr. Brent Simpson on Facebook
🎙️ Creating the Future Podcast: Creating the Future Podcast

Our Summer Series continues as Dr. Brent Simpson sits down with Pastor José Medina, Pastor of ARISE Español, for a conversation about faith, family, ministry, restoration, and the unexpected ways God can use every part of our story.
If Pastor José could take his dream vacation anywhere, there's one place at the top of his list: Israel. His dream is to one day walk where Jesus walked and experience the places he's spent his life reading about in Scripture.
Born in Puerto Rico, Pastor José spent the first 12 years of his life surrounded by the mountains and beauty of the island. His grandfather was a farmer, and some of his earliest memories include picking and selling coffee, exploring the forest, riding bikes, discovering creeks and bamboo, and getting lost on adventures. Think of him as a Puerto Rican Tom Sawyer!
His grandparents were also people of deep faith who had an incredible influence on his life. Growing up in church gave Pastor José a spiritual foundation that would become especially important later in his story.
In this conversation, Pastor José shares when he gave his life to Christ, how he learned English, and how his journey in ministry began at just 14 years old. He also opens up about one of the most difficult seasons of his life. After going through a divorce, he walked away from the church for a time, but the foundation that had been built in his relationship with the Lord remained. Eventually, God brought him back and continued writing his ministry story.
Pastor José reflects on what has surprised him most about ministry and shares a season of serving that he will never forget. He also tells the incredible and unexpected story of how a lost dog ultimately helped lead him to ARISE Church.
What began as an unexpected connection eventually became a new chapter of ministry as Pastor José helped plant ARISE Español. Today, he shares what he loves most about serving at ARISE, his heart for reaching the Spanish-speaking community, and even a few things you might not know about him, including his experience working for Apple.
Pastor José's story is a powerful reminder that even when our journey takes turns we never expected, God can use our foundation, our experiences, and even the most unlikely circumstances to lead us exactly where He wants us to be.
 
Do you have a question for Pastor José Medina? Email us at info@myarisechurch.com
🔗 Connect with Dr. Brent Simpson
🌐 Brent Simpson: www.BrentSimpson.com
🏡 ARISE Church: www.MyAriseChurch.com
📱 Instagram: @DrBrentSimpson
📘 Facebook: Dr. Brent Simpson on Facebook
🎙️ Creating the Future Podcast: Creating the Future Podcast
 
 

Our Summer Series continues as Dr. Brent Simpson sits down with Pastor Jeremiah McAnulty, Youth Pastor at ARISE Church South Lakeland, for a conversation about growing up in church, finding his own faith, discovering his call to ministry, and seeing God work through the next generation.
And before we get too serious, we learn one very important fact about Pastor Jeremiah: he's team Cocoa Pebbles.
Born in Louisiana and the son of ARISE Executive Pastor Ken McAnulty, Pastor Jeremiah grew up surrounded by church and ministry. But being a pastor's kid didn't mean he had everything figured out. He shares what he was like as a self-described "knucklehead" growing up, his years in the gifted program, his love for math and school, and how he wrestled with arrogance during his high school years.
Pastor Jeremiah also takes us back to his first day at Brandon Assembly, which happened to be during a youth service. Nearly 12 years later, ARISE has become an important part of his story, from attending as a student to now serving on staff, and leading students himself.
In this episode, he opens up about his salvation experience, the vision God gave him at 18 years old that confirmed his call to ministry, and the journey that eventually led him into youth ministry. He also shares the story of meeting his future wife when they were just 12 years old before eventually beginning to date at 18.
After three years on staff at ARISE, Pastor Jeremiah reflects on what has surprised him most about ministry: just how fulfilling it is to watch God work in people's lives. From his own years in youth ministry to now leading the next generation, his story is a reminder of what God can do through a life surrendered to His calling.
 
Do you have a question for Pastor Jeremiah McAnulty? Email us at info@myarisechurch.com
🔗 Connect with Dr. Brent Simpson
🌐 Brent Simpson: www.BrentSimpson.com
🏡 ARISE Church: www.MyAriseChurch.com
📱 Instagram: @DrBrentSimpson
📘 Facebook: Dr. Brent Simpson on Facebook
🎙️ Creating the Future Podcast: Creating the Future Podcast

Our Summer Series continues as Dr. Brent Simpson sits down with Pastor Pete Kramer, Teaching Pastor at ARISE Church, for a conversation full of laughter, incredible stories, and practical wisdom about serving Jesus through the local church.
From growing up in a Christian home to being a proud product of the church van ministry, Pastor Pete shares how God used faithful people and consistent service to shape the course of his life. Homeschooled and heavily involved in church from a young age, he talks about serving as a teenager, discovering God's call to ministry, and how serving the local church became the foundation of his faith.
Known for his quick wit and legendary dad jokes, Pastor Pete also shares hilarious stories from his childhood, including the driver's license photo where he somehow stood only 5'9" long. But beyond the humor are powerful moments that have marked his life and ministry.
You'll hear incredible testimonies of God's faithfulness, including the miraculous healing of his son, the unforgettable story of a Buddhist monk giving his life to Jesus, and what 17 years of ministry have taught him about the importance of being continually filled before pouring into others.
Whether you've heard Pastor Pete preach many times or are just getting to know him, this conversation offers a deeper look at the heart, humility, and passion behind ARISE Church's Teaching Pastor.
Do you have a question for Pastor Pete Kramer? Email us at info@myarisechurch.com
🔗 Connect with Dr. Brent Simpson
🌐 Brent Simpson: www.BrentSimpson.com
🏡 ARISE Church: www.MyAriseChurch.com
📱 Instagram: @DrBrentSimpson
📘 Facebook: Dr. Brent Simpson on Facebook
🎙️ Creating the Future Podcast: Creating the Future Podcast

Our Summer Series continues as Dr. Brent Simpson sits down with the man, the myth, the legend himself, Pastor Ken McAnulty, Executive Pastor at ARISE Church.
Have you ever wondered what an Executive Pastor actually does? In this episode, Pastor Ken gives an inside look at his role, shares the story of how God called him to ARISE Church, and reflects on nearly three decades of ministry.
Growing up as a pastor's kid, Pastor Ken experienced both the blessings and the expectations that often come with ministry. Although many know him today as a confident leader, he shares what it was really like growing up as a quiet, introverted, self-proclaimed nerd who moved around frequently. From giving his life to Christ at a kids crusade to discovering God's call on his life, Pastor Ken's story is one of faithfulness, humility, and God's direction every step of the way.
Along the way, you'll also learn about his love for Michigan football, his favorite fiction and nonfiction books, hear some fun stories, and discover the defining moment in his 28 years of ministry that continues to shape the way he leads today.
Whether you've attended ARISE for years or you're just getting to know Pastor Ken, this conversation offers a deeper look at the heart, wisdom, and servant leadership behind one of the key leaders of our church.
Do you have a question for Pastor Ken McAnulty? Email us at info@myarisechurch.com
🔗 Connect with Dr. Brent Simpson
🌐 Brent Simpson: www.BrentSimpson.com
🏡 ARISE Church: www.MyAriseChurch.com
📱 Instagram: @DrBrentSimpson
📘 Facebook: Dr. Brent Simpson on Facebook
🎙️ Creating the Future Podcast: Creating the Future Podcast

The Summer Series continues as Dr. Brent Simpson sits down with Pastor Jonny Turpin, Connections Pastor at ARISE Church, for a conversation filled with laughter, powerful testimony, and the faithfulness of God.
Born and raised in Bartow, Florida, Pastor Jonny shares what it was like growing up as a true country boy. From spending his days outdoors to life in a pastor's home, he reflects on the values that shaped him, his love for the cowboy lifestyle, and why you'll probably find him watching The Office when he has some downtime.
But beyond the fun stories is a powerful testimony of God's transforming grace. Pastor Jonny shares how a life-changing encounter with Jesus at church camp completely changed the trajectory of his life. He opens up about his teenage years, how God led him to Englewood, and the journey that eventually brought him and his family to ARISE Church.
Whether he's talking about his love for water sports, his passion for helping people find community, or the joy of serving alongside his family at ARISE, this conversation is full of encouragement, authenticity, and reminders that God is faithful through every season.
In This Episode
• Growing up in Bartow, Florida, as a country boy
• What it was like being raised by pastor parents
• His childhood, teenage years, and love for the outdoors
• Why The Office is his favorite TV show
• His passion for water sports and the cowboy lifestyle
• The church camp experience that changed his life forever
• How God led him to Englewood and eventually to ARISE Church
• The blessing of serving alongside his family at ARISE
• Encouragement for anyone seeking God's purpose for their life
 
Do you have a question for Pastor Jonny Turpin? Email us at info@myarisechurch.com
🔗 Connect with Dr. Brent Simpson
🌐 Brent Simpson: www.BrentSimpson.com
🏡 ARISE Church: www.MyAriseChurch.com
📱 Instagram: @DrBrentSimpson
📘 Facebook: Dr. Brent Simpson on Facebook
🎙️ Creating the Future Podcast: Creating the Future Podcast
 

Our Summer Series continues as Dr. Brent Simpson sits down with Pastor Danny Izquierdo, Youth Pastor at ARISE Church's Brandon location, for one of the most honest, heartfelt, and entertaining conversations of the season.
From growing up between Venezuela and Tennessee to his unforgettable love for Nutella (yes, it counts as his favorite "candy"), Pastor Danny shares the story of a childhood marked by brokenness, high energy, and a deep longing to be loved. Behind the laughter and hilarious stories is a powerful testimony of God's redeeming grace.
In this episode, Pastor Danny opens up about his radical encounter with Jesus, a moment when he went from feeling spiritually dead on the inside to experiencing the life-changing power of Christ. He shares how God called him into ministry, what it means to lead while you're still healing, and why authenticity is one of the greatest strengths a leader can have.
You'll laugh, you'll be encouraged, and you'll be reminded that no past is too broken for God to redeem.
In This Episode
• Pastor Danny's childhood and family story
• Growing up with Venezuelan roots and being born in Knoxville, Tennessee
• Why Nutella is his all-time favorite "candy"
• Life in a broken home and searching for acceptance
• His radical salvation story and life-changing encounter with Jesus
• How God called him into ministry
• What it means to lead while bleeding
• Funny stories, memorable moments, and fun facts you've probably never heard
• Encouragement for the now generation and anyone believing God for a fresh start
 
Do you have a question for Pastor Danny Izquierdo? Email us at info@myarisechurch.com
 
🔗 Connect with Dr. Brent Simpson
🌐 Brent Simpson: www.BrentSimpson.com
🏡 ARISE Church: www.MyAriseChurch.com
📱 Instagram: @DrBrentSimpson
📘 Facebook: Dr. Brent Simpson on Facebook
🎙️ Creating the Future Podcast: Creating the Future Podcast

Our Summer Series continues as Dr. Brent Simpson sits down with Pastor Jason Vega, Worship Pastor at ARISE Church, for an honest and inspiring conversation about faith, family, worship, and the journey that brought him into ministry.
Get to know Pastor Jason beyond the platform as he shares stories from his childhood, how he came to know Jesus, the moment he gave his life to Christ, and the experiences that shaped his passion for leading people into the presence of God. From his favorite worship songs to the role his family has played in his journey, this episode offers a personal look at the heart behind the worship ministry at ARISE Church.
Whether you see Pastor Jason leading worship each weekend or you're meeting him for the first time, you'll be encouraged by his authenticity, his love for Jesus, and his desire to see people experience God's presence.
🔍 In This Episode you'll learn
 Pastor Jason's childhood and faith journey
The story of how he gave his life to Christ
How God called him into worship ministry
His heart for leading worship at ARISE Church
 His favorite worship songs and the songs that have impacted his life
What he hopes people experience every time they enter into worship
💬 Have a question for Pastor Jason? EMAIL US at info@myarisechurch.com or comment below!
🔗 Connect with Dr. Brent Simpson
🌐 Brent Simpson: www.BrentSimpson.com
🏡 ARISE Church: www.MyAriseChurch.com
📱 Instagram: @DrBrentSimpson
📘 Facebook: Dr. Brent Simpson on Facebook
🎙️ Creating the Future Podcast

This summer on Creating the Future, Dr. Brent Simpson is sitting down with some of the incredible pastors who help lead ARISE Church. In this first episode of the series, he welcomes Pastor Jeff Allen, Brandon Location Pastor, and Pastor Marilee Allen, Children's Pastor, for a candid conversation about faith, family, ministry, and God's faithfulness through every season.
Together, they share the stories that shaped their lives, how they came to know Jesus, and the unique journey that led them to ARISE Church. From their personal salvation experiences to the calling God placed on their lives, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at two pastors who are passionate about helping people encounter Jesus and grow in their faith.
Whether you've known the Allens for years or are meeting them for the first time, you'll be encouraged by their authenticity, their love for God's people, and their commitment to serving the local church.
Connect with Dr. Brent Simpson Brent Simpson: www.BrentSimpson.com ARISE Church: www.MyAriseChurch.com Instagram: @DrBrentSimpson Facebook: Dr. Brent Simpson on Facebook