Uncommen: Man To Man

Mission At Uncommen, we hold a core belief: every man has within him the makings of a remarkable husband, father, and leader. Yet, we know that life doesn't always make these roles easy to navigate. The path is often riddled with challenges, from battling personal demons like addiction, financial stress, and health issues to facing everyday hurdles in family dynamics, self-confidence, and defining success. Our mission is to offer a beacon of support—an Uncommen solution—to guide men toward facing these trials and triumphing over them, fostering positive change in their families, communities, and beyond. Our purpose is to encourage and challenge men to unlock their inherent potential and step into the roles they were destined to fill. By embracing a life centered around Christ's teachings and God's design for manhood, we believe every man can navigate his struggles and reach his aspirations while honoring God. Through the wisdom of scripture and the example set by Jesus, we offer direction and support. We recognize that each man is crafted with a distinct set of talents and a unique calling. We aim to help men identify, pursue, and passionately fulfill this calling. To support this journey, Uncommen delivers a wealth of resources—weekly blog posts, original content, workbooks, and small group materials- available on our website and through the Bible App. We intend to arm men with practical advice and insights, aiding their growth in all facets of life. We're committed to empowering men to become who God intended and always seek individuals aligned with our ethos. Whether through prayer, financial contributions, volunteering writing and grant writing skills, or offering professional fundraising expertise, there's a role for everyone in this endeavor. We invite you to join us on this transformative journey, helping men realize their fullest potential everywhere.

Becoming Dad

Sat, 14 Jun 2025 13:00:46 +0000

Embracing the Challenge of Becoming Dad In this special Father’s Day edition of the Man-to-Man Podcast, we dive into the realities, challenges, and blessings that come with Becoming Dad. Whether you’re preparing to become a father, adjusting to a new baby, or navigating the later seasons of parenting, this episode offers insight, humor, and heartfelt wisdom. Through honest conversation and personal experience, we discuss the shift in priorities, spiritual responsibility, and the everyday decisions that shape us as fathers. The Wake-Up Call of Becoming Dad When a child enters your life, everything changes. From sleep schedules to finances, fatherhood reshapes what matters most—and often, the biggest shift is internal. Reflection:Many men underestimate how much maturity is required until it’s suddenly demanded. Think back: are you preparing now for the man you’ll need to be later? Or are you hoping to flip a switch when the time comes? Lesson:Fatherhood isn’t something you grow into by accident. It takes intentionality. Seek wisdom from other dads, dig into resources on parenting, and grow spiritually before the pressure hits. As one guest put it, “Maturity helps when chaos erupts”—and it always will. Challenge:Reach out to a seasoned father and ask what surprised him […]

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Dad You Need Rest Too

Sat, 07 Jun 2025 13:00:30 +0000

You hustle. You provide. You protect. Day in and day out, you show up because that’s what good dads do. But Dad, You Need Rest Too. But here’s the hard truth—too many dads are running on empty. And somewhere along the way, we’ve bought the lie that slowing down is weakness. It’s not. Rest isn’t a luxury—it’s a lifeline. Dad, You Need Rest Too. Without it, you risk leading your family from a place of depletion, not strength. And if you’re constantly running on fumes, you’re not just wearing yourself out. You’re leading your family from a place of depletion, not strength. Busy Isn’t Holy In our culture, busyness has become a badge of honor. “How’s life?” we ask. “Busy,” we answer—with pride, not concern. But scripture paints a different picture—one that starts with this truth: Dad, You Need Rest Too. “It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for He gives to His beloved sleep.” – Psalm 127:2 Even Jesus—Son of God, Savior of the world—took time to rest. He slipped away to pray. He napped in the boat during a storm. He modeled the rhythm […]

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The Listening Husband

Sat, 24 May 2025 13:00:49 +0000

Scripture:“Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.”– James 1:19 When She Talks, Are You Really Listening? You can be in the same room, hear every word your wife says, and still miss what she’s actually telling you. Many husbands don’t struggle with hearing—they struggle with listening. The Listening Husband knows the difference. The difference? One takes sound in. The other takes the heart in. Fixing isn’t always the answer. In fact, sometimes it’s the problem. When your wife opens up, she’s not handing you a project—she’s inviting you into her world. And if your first instinct is to solve rather than sit with her, you may be missing the moment entirely. Proverbs 18:13 puts it bluntly: “To answer before listening—that is folly and shame.” Listening is more than a skill—it’s an act of love. Presence Over Performance Too often, we think nodding while scrolling counts as engagement. It doesn’t. Real listening begins with presence—something The Listening Husband practices every day. That means eyes up, phone down, and attention undivided. Distraction says, “You’re optional.” Presence says, “You’re essential.” Jesus models this perfectly. When Mary and Martha were grieving, He didn’t rush in with […]

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Thriving in the Good Days

Sat, 10 May 2025 13:00:15 +0000

What do you do when life is good? Scripture:“When you have eaten and are satisfied, praise the Lord your God… Be careful that you do not forget the Lord your God.”– Deuteronomy 8:10–11 Don’t Waste the Blessing After the cross came the resurrection. After sorrow came joy. Just as Easter reminds us that God meets us in the valley, it also assures us He walks with us on the mountaintop. But here’s the real challenge: how we live in the good days matters just as much as how we endure the hard ones. Thriving in the Good Days starts with recognizing that peace and comfort are not pauses in your faith journey—they’re part of your preparation. When life is comfortable—money’s steady, relationships are peaceful, and you’re healthy—it’s easy to get lulled into a spiritual nap. We stop praying with urgency. We stop seeking God with hunger. And before long, we stop acknowledging that He’s the one who brought us to this season in the first place. Thriving in the Good Days means remembering who led you here—and continuing to walk closely with Him, even when things are going well. Israel did this after entering the Promised Land. They forgot […]

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Enduring the Hard Days

Sat, 26 Apr 2025 13:00:56 +0000

How to Stay Faithful When Life Hurts Scripture: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” – James 1:2-3 Why the Hard Days Matter “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33 Hard days hit without warning. Whether it’s a health scare, job loss, grief, or a season of waiting, no one is immune. The pain might be physical, emotional, or spiritual. It may be short-lived or stretch on longer than we ever expected. But no matter what form it takes, one truth remains: our response matters. Faith doesn’t exempt us from suffering. In fact, following Jesus often brings new challenges. But it also brings a deeper strength—a strength rooted in something far more stable than our circumstances: God’s presence. 1. Expect the Storms “In this world you will have trouble.” – John 16:33 Jesus didn’t sugarcoat the truth. Trouble will come. But the presence of pain doesn’t mean the absence of God. On the contrary, some […]

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Here I Am, Lord… Send Someone Else

Sat, 12 Apr 2025 13:00:56 +0000

We love to quote Isaiah’s bold declaration: “Here I am, Lord. Send me.” But if we’re honest, many of us live out a different prayer: “Here I Am Lord Send Someone Else.” Moses was standing on holy ground, talking directly with God, and still tried to opt out. Sound familiar? We may not be facing Pharaoh, but God calls each of us to a mission. And too often, we respond with excuses, fears, or flat-out resistance. Availability Over Ability God isn’t looking for the most gifted—He’s looking for the most willing. Moses didn’t feel equipped. He questioned his speaking skills, his leadership, and even God’s choice. But God wasn’t concerned with Moses’ résumé—He was looking for obedience. You might not feel ready or qualified. But God’s not waiting for perfection—He’s waiting for surrender. Uncommen Reflection:Are you saying “yes” to God—or making excuses? Practical Step:Pray a simple but bold prayer: “Lord, I’m available. Use me however You want.” Following God Often Means Losing Control Trusting God isn’t about having the full plan in front of you. It’s about saying yes before the details are clear. Moses had no idea what lay ahead—plagues, Red Sea crossings, wilderness wandering. If he had […]

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March Manness: We Each Have a Role to Play

Sat, 29 Mar 2025 13:00:38 +0000

It’s time for March Manness Scripture Focus: “For just as the body is one and has many members… so it is with Christ.” – 1 Corinthians 12:12 Are You On the Bench or in the Game? When March Manness hits, everyone talks about brackets, buzzer-beaters, and underdogs. But in the body of Christ, we’re not just spectators—we’re players. And just like a basketball team struggles when one player doesn’t show up, the church struggles when believers don’t step into their role. God has placed unique gifts inside every one of us. Some teach. Some lead. Some encourage. But all are called to serve. The question isn’t whether you’re gifted. It’s whether you’re using those gifts to build up the church. Every Role Matters—Even the Side Door Think your gifts don’t matter? Think again. Whether you’re on the stage singing or holding the door with a smile, your role makes a difference. The church isn’t built on talent alone—it’s built on commitment, humility, and teamwork. The key isn’t comparison; it’s contribution. When we stop worrying about who gets the spotlight and start focusing on glorifying God, the church becomes stronger and more unified. Uncommen Reflection: Are you showing up and […]

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Triggers

Sat, 08 Mar 2025 11:00:30 +0000

Mastering Your Reactions in a Chaotic World Scripture Focus: “We take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” – 2 Corinthians 10:5 What Sets You Off? We live in a world full of triggers. From social media debates to unexpected setbacks, it doesn’t take much to send us into anger, anxiety, or frustration. The challenge isn’t just avoiding triggers—it’s learning to respond to them in a way that honors God. The Bible calls us to self-control and wisdom, but if we’re honest, most of us struggle. Whether it’s road rage, workplace stress, or social media drama, our reactions often reveal what controls us. So, how do we stop letting emotions run the show and start mastering our responses? Let’s examine the common triggers and consider how we can control our thoughts, words, and actions. Emotional Triggers: Are You Really in Control? We like to believe we have control over our emotions, but do we? Ask yourself: Do you get defensive when someone challenges your opinion? Do you let pride keep you from admitting you’re wrong? Do you react in anger when things don’t go your way? Emotions like anger, competitiveness, and insecurity are powerful forces. Left unchecked, […]

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Breaking Free of Porn

Sat, 22 Feb 2025 13:00:05 +0000

A Path to Renewal Scripture Focus:“But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” – Matthew 5:28 The Cultural Stronghold of Pornography Pornography is no longer a hidden vice—it’s a cultural stronghold. With instant access at our fingertips, what used to be tucked away in magazines behind counters is now just one click away. Exposure starts young, with the average age of first contact around 11. Society markets porn as “harmless entertainment,” but the consequences are far from trivial. The reality? Porn rewires the brain, disrupts relationships, and isolates men in shame. More than that, it fuels a billion-dollar industry built on exploitation, trafficking, and addiction. As men, we need to ask ourselves: Are we passively conforming to a culture that normalizes sin, or are we actively fighting for purity? Let’s examine key areas where porn is shaping us and how we can start breaking free of porn today. The Accessibility Trap “If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away.” – Matthew 5:29 The battle against pornography isn’t just about willpower—it’s about access. The internet, social media, […]

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Unintended Discipleship

Sat, 08 Feb 2025 11:00:53 +0000

Who or What Is Shaping You? Scripture Focus: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” – Romans 12:2 Discipleship in the Everyday Whether we realize it or not, the world disciplines us daily. From the shows we binge-watch to the conversations we have, the influences around us shape how we think, what we value, and how we act. But here’s the challenge: are these influences disciplining us toward Christ or away from Him? Let’s look deeper at four major areas where unintended discipleship happens and ask ourselves, are we being shaped by culture or Scripture? Movies: The Stories We Absorb “How storytelling impacts our moral compass.” Movies are powerful tools of influence. They’re not just entertainment; they shape our views of morality, relationships, and priorities. Think about the subtle (and not-so-subtle) messaging in modern films. Whether it’s normalized themes of materialism, sexuality, or even direct shots at Christianity, what we consume often challenges our values. Uncommen Reflection: What themes dominate the movies you watch? Are they encouraging your […]

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Danger Close

Sat, 25 Jan 2025 13:00:06 +0000

Recognizing Spiritual Danger Before It’s Too Late Scripture Focus: “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.” – Proverbs 14:12 Living Dangerously Close Life is full of near misses. Whether narrowly avoiding an accident or stepping away from risky choices just in time, we all encounter moments where the line between safety and disaster is razor-thin. In 2022, there were over 227,000 unintentional deaths in the United States alone. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) These included causes like falls, motor vehicle accidents, and poisoning. Each of these fatalities began with a decision—sometimes a seemingly minor one—that had fatal consequences. The same principle applies spiritually. While we might not always recognize it, our choices can bring us dangerously close to spiritual ruin. Proverbs 14:12 warns us that what feels right at the moment can often lead to destruction. Let’s look at two stories of men in the Bible who found themselves closer to disaster than they realized: David and Samson. David’s Decision Around Bathsheba Focus Scripture: 2 Samuel 11:1-4 “In the spring, at the time when kings go off to war, David sent Joab out with […]

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A New Year, A New Charge

Sat, 11 Jan 2025 11:00:47 +0000

Leading Well: A New Year’s Charge for Husbands, Fathers, and Leaders In this episode of the Man-to-Man Podcast, “A New Year, A New Change,” we explore what it means to lead with purpose as husbands, fathers, and leaders. Starting a new year often brings resolutions and goals, but authentic leadership demands more than intentions—it calls for humility, vision, and faith. Using Jesus’s example, this episode discusses servant leadership and practical ways to apply a new change at home, in the workplace, and within the community. Foundations of Servant Leadership Leadership modeled by Jesus contrasts the world’s view of power. As described in Matthew 20:26-28, greatness comes through serving others. At home, this begins with being present and intentional in the lives of your spouse and children. Leadership is not about perfection; it’s about consistently striving to lead with humility and purpose. Reflection: Jesus was hands-on with His disciples, leading by example. Are you present with your family in the same way? Think about how you can prioritize their spiritual and emotional needs this year. Lesson: Servant leadership starts at home. Whether initiating family prayer time or leading by example in your actions, every step builds trust and connection. Ephesians […]

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Happy New Year…… Now What?

Sat, 28 Dec 2024 11:00:44 +0000

Finding Direction When the Future Feels Unclear The dawn of a new year often brings a mix of hope and hesitation. While some dive headfirst into resolutions, others find themselves wondering what to plan for when the future seems so uncertain. In this episode of the Man-to-Man Podcast, “Finding Direction When the Future Feels Unclear,” we explore how to embrace uncertainty and find purpose in the unknown. Embracing the Season of Uncertainty Uncertainty is not the time to stand still; it is a time to lean on God. When the future feels unclear, trust that God is using this season to teach you something deeper. Reflection Life throws curveballs, as seen in the personal story shared during the podcast: a career disrupted by Hurricane Katrina led to the creation of Studio490. What seemed like chaos became the path to a greater calling. Trusting God in uncertainty opens the door for transformation. Lesson Psalm 37:5 reminds us, “Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act.” Trusting God does not mean having all the answers—it means relying on His plan, even when you can’t see it. Challenge Take time this week to pray and commit your […]

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Tis The Busy Season

Sat, 14 Dec 2024 13:00:50 +0000

Finding Peace During the Busy Season Welcome to another episode of the Mna-to-Man Podcast, “’Tis The Busy Season.” With the holiday rush upon us, this episode explores how we can find peace amidst the busyness of December. We’ll discuss practical ways to create moments of stillness, embrace rest, and stay connected to God as the true reason for the season. This is a time to slow down, reflect, and prioritize what truly matters. Embracing Stillness Amidst the Rush The holiday season can be overwhelming, with endless to-do lists, family gatherings, and last-minute shopping. In our conversation, we shared about planning family outings and Christmas light tours, which can still feel like a whirlwind. Even with fun traditions, it’s essential to find those intentional quiet moments. Key Takeaways: Prioritize Quiet Time: Taking even a few minutes each day can bring peace and clarity. Reframe the Season’s Purpose: Remember that Christmas celebrates Christ’s arrival—a moment of peace in a chaotic world. Challenge: This week, consider setting aside small moments for stillness. How might these moments help you find peace during this busy season? Scripture Reflection: Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still, and know that I am God.” Finding peace means pausing and acknowledging […]

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Reconnecting Hearts In Marriage

Sat, 30 Nov 2024 13:00:20 +0000

Reconnecting Hearts In Marriage In this episode of the Man-to-Man Podcast, Reconnecting Hearts In Marriage, we dive into the challenges that arise when couples drift apart. Whether due to differing beliefs, emotional disconnects, or life pressures, marriages often encounter seasons of distance. Some spouses are believers while others are not, and even among believers, spiritual disconnection can occur. This episode explores three essential steps to rebuild and nurture connection: Recognize, Communicate, and Unite. Let’s unpack these steps through the lens of biblical wisdom. Recognizing the Distance Marital drift is more common than many realize. Over time, life’s distractions, from careers to raising children, can create an emotional gap between spouses. Often, couples only notice the drift when the kids leave home or when routines turn into quiet co-existence. Recognizing that gap is the first step toward healing. Reflection: Uncommen receives numerous prayer requests related to marriage, especially from spouses who feel disconnected. It’s not uncommon for one partner to say, “We’re just getting by,” while the other has emotionally disengaged. Lesson: Acknowledging the disconnect allows couples to start the healing process. As Amos 3:3 reminds us, “Do two walk together unless they have agreed to do so?” Without recognition, […]

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Staying Thankful

Sat, 16 Nov 2024 13:00:47 +0000

Finding Strength in Every Season Welcome to today’s episode of our Man-to-Man podcast: Staying Thankful. In “Staying Thankful,” we explore the power of gratitude and how choosing thankfulness as a daily practice can shape our outlook on life. Strengthening our relationships and deepening our connection with God is a way to find strength in God. Gratitude isn’t just for the Thanksgiving season; it’s a way of life that grounds us in both the blessings and the challenges. Recognizing God’s Daily Blessings Gratitude starts with noticing the simple gifts God places in our path every day. Whether it’s a meaningful conversation, a peaceful moment over coffee, or the beauty of nature, small moments reveal God’s presence in our lives. A personal story shared in today’s podcast reflects this truth: the memory of a loved one who has passed and the realization that time spent with family is precious. The question is, do we recognize these blessings when we have them? Often, we only realize their value after they’re gone. Recognizing these small blessings can open us up to a life filled with thankfulness and joy. Lessons Learned: Small Blessings Matter: A simple act of kindness, a conversation, or a shared meal […]

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The Isolation Trap

Sat, 02 Nov 2024 11:00:13 +0000

Why Doing Life Alone Isn’t God’s Plan Welcome to another episode of our Man-to-Man podcast, The Isolation Trap, where we explore the dangers of isolation and why living life alone isn’t part of God’s plan. In this episode, we discuss the impact of isolation on our mental, emotional, and spiritual health and provide practical steps to break free from the trap of loneliness. We’ll also discuss the importance of embracing community, accountability, and connection as God intended. The Dangers of Isolation The isolation trap is more than just being physically alone—it can deeply affect your mental and spiritual well-being. Men often believe that handling life’s struggles alone is a sign of strength, but this mindset can lead to loneliness and disconnection from the very support we need. Did You Know? Research from the American Psychological Association (2022) shows that social isolation is linked to a higher risk of poor mental health and even early mortality. Many men fear appearing weak by sharing their struggles, leading them further into isolation. But Genesis 2:18 tells us, “It is not good that the man should be alone.” God designed us for connection and to live in community. Lessons Learned: Isolation Breeds Weakness: […]

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Weathering the Storm

Sat, 19 Oct 2024 13:00:31 +0000

In this episode of the Man-to-Man Podcast, Weathering the Storm, we reflect on how to face life’s unexpected challenges inspired by the recent hurricane devastation in Western North Carolina. Drawing on personal experiences, including the impact of Hurricane Katrina, we dive into four critical responses to trials: Resist, Retreat, React, and Respond. Together, we’ll explore what the Bible teaches about these choices and how faith can anchor us in the midst of storms. Facing the Unforeseen Trials Unexpected hardships can shake us to our core. Whether it’s a hurricane, the sudden loss of a loved one, or a personal crisis, trials test our faith and resilience. As we reflect on our experience as Hurricane Katrina evacuees, we share what it means to confront these challenges head-on. We also acknowledge the pain Western North Carolina residents are currently experiencing, emphasizing the importance of community support during these moments. Resist: The Temptation to Deny the Storm Ignoring or downplaying trials only prolongs the hardship. Denial keeps us stuck, making it harder to move forward. As James 1:2-3 reminds us, trials test our faith to build perseverance. Are you facing your trials honestly, or are you resisting the reality in front […]

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While the Master Is Gone

Sat, 05 Oct 2024 13:00:39 +0000

Using Your Resources Wisely In this episode of the Uncommen Podcast, While the Master Is Gone, we dive into the parable of the tenants and explore how we can use the resources God has given us while awaiting Jesus’ return. The Bible teaches us that our resources—whether time, talents, or treasures—are not just for us to keep. We’re called to use them wisely. We discuss four key ways we interact with our resources: Hoard, Spend, Waste, and Invest. Let’s break down what each of these means for our walk with God. The Misuse of Resources We often misuse the gifts God has entrusted to us. Whether we hoard out of fear, spend recklessly, or waste our time and talents, each of these actions prevents us from fulfilling God’s purpose. Hoarding Out of Fear Hoarding comes from a place of fear and scarcity. When we hold too tightly to our resources, we’re telling God we don’t trust Him to provide. Proverbs 13:22 says, “A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children, but a sinner’s wealth is stored up for the righteous.” When we hoard, we not only hinder our spiritual growth but also limit how God can […]

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