Summary

In this episode of the Urbana podcast, hosts Mark Matlock and Phoebe Jeske sit down with Andy Kim, Associate Conference Director and upcoming MC for Urbana 25. The conversation centers around Andy’s journey in Christian leadership, the profound impact Urbana has had on his life, and the surprising way he joined the Urbana leadership team.

Andy shares how his first Urbana experience as a college sophomore in 2003 transformed his faith from “two-dimensional to three-dimensional,” giving him a fresh vision for global missions and the breadth of God’s kingdom. Growing up in a Korean American church, Andy reflects on learning to appreciate diverse worship styles and global perspectives, experiences that have continued to shape his faith and ministry.

A major focus of the episode is the backstory of how both Andy and Mark applied for the Urbana Director role. Andy candidly shares about feeling a strong calling to apply, his initial disappointment when Mark was selected, and the unexpected process of healing and partnership that followed. Mark created the Associate Director role specifically for Andy, recognizing his passion and gifts. Both speak openly about how God’s orchestration turned initial disappointment into a fruitful and joyful collaboration, illustrating themes of trust, surrender, and resilience in the face of closed doors.

The episode ends with reflections on Urbana’s unique legacy, the importance of adapting to each new generation, and the excitement for Urbana 25 as a space where students can connect deeply with God’s work around the world and discern their own roles in His mission!

Show Notes

(00:00) Introduction

(03:08) Introducing Urbana’s New MC

(11:33) Discovering Diverse Prayer Traditions

(19:39) Future Vision for the North American Church

(27:35) Honoring Legacy While Embracing Innovation

(34:05) InterVarsity’s Global Student Movement

(40:20) Urbana’s Fresh Legacy

(44:12) Closing Thoughts

Links

Mark Matlock

Urbana

Urbana YouTube

Andy Kim

Summary

In this episode of the Urbana podcast, hosts Mark Matlock and Phoebe Jeske are joined by Rev. Dr. Nicole Martin, Chief Operating Officer of Christianity Today, for an insightful discussion on the changing landscape of missions and the emerging generation’s role in the church. Nicole shares her personal experience attending Urbana as a college student and how it became a direction-setting event, deepening her sense of calling and introducing her to the broader context of global Christianity.

The conversation explores the profound impact of technology—especially artificial intelligence—on how young adults engage with faith and community, as well as the anxieties and complexities of modern life. Nicole highlights the increasing accessibility of global connection, the significance of storytelling, and the challenges posed by social media algorithms that tend to create echo chambers and reduce empathy.

A key topic addressed is the concerning trend of young women leaving the church, contrasted with a newfound engagement among young men. Nicole examines potential reasons for women’s disengagement, including limited leadership opportunities, church hurt, and cultural shifts. Additionally, Nicole discusses the complexities of missions in the context of colonialism and cultural intelligence, emphasizing the need to share the gospel both locally and globally without imposing cultural forms. The episode concludes with Nicole’s encouragement for resilience rooted in the gospel—highlighted in her new book—and her hope that Urbana can catalyze genuine encounters with Christ and renewal for young leaders!

Show Notes

(00:00) Introduction

(05:38) Deepening Relationships Through Shared Faith

(11:50) Future Uncertainty from AI’s Impact

(15:47) Women’s Critical Role in Ministry

(22:28) Bridging Divisions Through Gospel Connections

(25:21) Colonialism and Gospel Contextualization

(28:58) Embracing Cultural Intelligence Locally

(35:30) Finding Fulfillment Beyond Social Media

(38:22) Christian Nationalism and Gender Exclusion

(42:48) Balancing Mission and Cultural Identity

Links

Mark Matlock

Urbana

Urbana YouTube

Nicole Martin

Christianity Today

Summary

In this episode of the Urbana podcast, hosts Mark Matlock and Phoebe Jeske introduce listeners to the worship team for Urbana 25, featuring musician Tracy Stingley, Alexandria DeJesus, and James Paek. The discussion centers on the unique collaborative spirit and multicultural approach shaping this year’s worship experience. The team reflects on the profound impact of worship at Urbana, which includes singing in multiple languages and fostering a sense of global unity among attendees.

The conversation delves into each worship leader’s personal journey and their commitment to both craftsmanship and spiritual authenticity. Tracy shares his story of overcoming early life challenges to become a musician dedicated to God’s service, while Alexandria highlights her current mission of connecting and equipping worship teams across the country. James discusses the intersection of culture, identity, and worship, emphasizing the importance of including underrepresented voices—particularly Asian American stories—in contemporary worship music.

A key theme of the episode is the balance between musical excellence and openness to the Holy Spirit’s direction. The team describes the importance of humility, preparation, and mutual submission in fostering authentic, Spirit-led worship moments—including spontaneous, “God moments” that transcend planning and programming. Overall, the episode offers an inspiring look at how intentional collaboration and diverse experiences are shaping worship at Urbana 25, setting the stage for a dynamic, inclusive encounter with God!

Show Notes

(00:00) Introduction

(09:36) Exploring Cultural Influence on Worship Music

(14:43) Unity in Worship Through Spirit

(18:00) Embracing Improvisation in Worship Music

(22:23) Embracing Life's Mystery

(28:47) Worship Through Humble Obedience

(32:39) Preparing Your Heart for Worship

(42:03) Closing Thoughts

Links

Mark Matlock

Urbana

Urbana YouTube

Tracy Stingley

Alexandria DeJesus

James Paek