Worship leader, songwriter and teacher, Natalie Runion joins Blake to discuss church culture and the challenges faced by believers. Natalie shares her journey from being a pastor's kid to experiencing significant church hurt, which led her to nearly leave the ministry. However, a transformative moment inspired her to start "Raised to Stay," a movement encouraging believers to remain committed to the church despite its flaws. They discuss the importance of distinguishing between being hurt by individuals in the church and the institution itself, advocating for healthy church environments and genuine community. The conversation emphasizes the need for believers to seek out churches that prioritize community, accountability, and spiritual growth, rather than those focused solely on numbers and fame. In this episode, you’ll be able to… Understand the difference between deconstruction and demolition in a faith context. Gain perspective on the importance of accountability and vulnerability in Christian communities. Explore the dynamics of mega churches versus smaller churches and what to look for in a healthy church environment. Natalie is the author of Raised to Stay (available now!) and The House That Jesus Built (coming September 2024!) To connect with Natalie: Website: natalierunion.com Instagram: @raisedtostay