S2 · E44
September 24 · 44 min
VR
Religion & SpiritualitySociety & Culture
Valley Run Podcast
AJ Dudek
Valley Run will help you redeem your canyon time in and around Estes Park, CO. Pastor A.J. Dudek, and guests tackle issues that relate to real life through the lens of the Gospel as they navigate issues like leadership, parenting, marriage, culture, and how the church can be a beacon of hope in a confused and unstable world.
So, whether you are making your grocery run, heading to a sporting event, or need to get out of town, the Valley Run Podcast hopes to encourage you well along the way.
- 20 episodes
- Avg 48 min
- English
- VR
S2 · E43September 16 · 48 min"Rest is NOT wasting time"
This episode explores the biblical understanding of rest, emphasizing that true rest is found in Christ, not just in rhythms or routines. Pastor AJ Dudek discusses how leadership and life are transformed when we rest in the personhood of Jesus, with insights from Dr. Dennis Episcopo.
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S2 · E41September 10 · 45 min"Can I Trust My Salvation"
This episode offers pastoral reassurance to Christians wrestling with assurance of salvation. AJ explains that confidence should rest not on fluctuating feelings or personal performance, but on God’s promises, the Spirit’s ongoing work in believers, and—above all—Christ’s finished work. Drawing on Scripture and Reformed voices, he addresses doubt, ongoing sin, and seasons of wandering, emphasizing that genuine faith is sustained by God’s faithfulness. He closes with practical encouragement to rehearse the gospel daily, look for growth rather than perfection, and rest in Christ’s secure hold.
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S2 · E40August 19 · 1 hr"Is Jesus Really the Only Way?"
This episode explores the exclusivity of Jesus as the only way to salvation, addressing cultural objections and biblical foundations. It emphasizes the importance of holding firm to biblical truth while engaging compassionately with a pluralistic culture.
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S2 · E39July 30 · 48 min"Why Does God Allow Suffering?"
In this episode, Pastor AJ Dudek explores the profound question of why God allows suffering, addressing the emotional and theological tensions that arise from pain, evil, and God's sovereignty. He offers biblical insights, stories of saints, and encouragement for those wrestling with these difficult questions.
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S2 · E38July 16 · 25 min"Can I Trust The Bible"
In a world filled with skepticism, many Christians often wrestle with a fundamental question: Can I trust the Bible? This question isn't just a matter of faith; it pertains to the historical reliability of the scriptures. In this blog post, we’ll explore the evidence supporting the Bible's authenticity, its divine inspiration, and why this matters for your faith.
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S2 · E37June 23 · 1 hr 33 minSpecial Live Event: The Days of Noah
Join Pastors AJ Dudek and Doug Van Dorn as they dive deep into understanding what the "Days of Noah" looked like in Genesis, while looking to the future prophecy of Christ's declaration in the Gospel of Matthew. This was a live event.
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S2 · E36June 11 · 1 hr 4 min"Talking to Kids About Hard Cultural Topics; Sexuality, Social Media, Identity"
In our ever-changing world, Christian parents face unique hurdles. As technology advances, kids are bombarded with comparisons and pressures we never had to deal with. Pastors A.J. Dudek and Brian Martin share deep insights on how social media distorts self-image and the urgency for parents to address identity biblically. It starts with us. Are we grounding ourselves and our children in the gospel? As we model our faith, we guide our kids through the complexities of today’s identity crisis.
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S2 · E35May 21 · 47 min"Faith at Home; Creating Spiritual Rythms"
Many Christian parents feel overwhelmed trying to weave faith into everyday family life. What if small, intentional rhythms could transform your home into a vibrant place where Christ is not just talked about on Sundays but treasured every day? This episode dives deep into the often overlooked power of spiritual rhythms—and why they matter more than ever in today's distracted world.We explore how habits like morning Bible time, family prayers, Sabbath observance, and symbolic celebrations—like Caleb's Easter cork tradition—can shape your children’s worldview and foster genuine devotion. Matt unveils how consistency and repetition are not boring but vital for embedding faith deep into your family’s subconscious. Caleb shares a powerful story of how annual traditions and simple acts—like writing "He is Risen" on a cork—embed the gospel into everyday life and even provide hope in times of crisis.You'll discover practical tools: daily blessings, weekly family nights, hymn of the month, and even combining church-centered holy days with personal rituals. The conversation clarifies why these small, repeatable acts aren’t just busywork—they communicate what your family truly values and shape your children’s understanding of God's design. Caleb emphasizes the importance of biblical literacy and intentionality, highlighting how biblical knowledge and authentic witness at home serve as foundations of lifelong faith.Why do spiritual rhythms matter? Because they align your family with God's created order, combat cultural liturgies, and create a safe, joyful space for God to work in your children’s hearts. Neglecting these rhythms risks emptiness and disconnect; embracing them opens the door for grace, growth, and transformation. If you’ve ever felt discouraged or uncertain about where to start, this episode offers hope and clarity—affirming that it’s never too late and that your efforts, no matter how small, matter immensely.Whether you're looking for practical steps to start tomorrow or longing for renewed vision, this episode equips you to lead your family with confidence and authenticity. Become the kind of home where gospel realities are woven into everyday moments—an environment where faith isn’t just taught, but caught.Perfect for parents, grandparents, and church leaders eager to see faith come alive at home, this episode promises that God’s mercy and grace can redeem any past failure and turn small acts into eternal impact. Hit play now and discover how to make your home a sanctuary of faith—where God's Word and daily rhythm bring joy, hope, and lifelong transformation.
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S2 · E34May 14 · 31 min“Discipline that teaches, Not just controls; a garden over a prison cell”
Learn practical strategies for disciplining your children that foster respect and emotional growth. Discover how to create a nurturing environment while maintaining authority. In today’s fast-paced world, many parents feel overwhelmed when it comes to disciplining their children. The challenge isn’t just about correcting behavior but also about shaping their hearts. In this episode, we’ll explore effective parenting strategies that emphasize correction over reaction, helping you build a loving and respectful home, a garden over a prison cell.
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S2 · E33April 16 · 39 min"Raising Kids in a Confused Culture"
Many parents feel overwhelmed by today's cultural chaos—uncertainty about truth, identity, and how to raise kids in a world that often feels unstable. This episode cuts through the noise with clear, practical advice rooted in God's Word. Pastor AJ and guest Chandra Pike, an expert in family ministry and education, explore how to anchor your child's identity in Christ amid the confusion, equipping them to stand firm against cultural tides. You'll discover the importance of long-term discipleship—how consistent rhythms, honest conversations, and modeling faith in everyday life shape resilient, grounded believers. Chandra shares specific strategies for navigating technology, gender identity, and emotional health—highlighting the power of loving parameters and biblical truth. We break down how worldview acts like glasses that color our entire perspective, and why training kids to see through God's lens is essential in today's worldview battleground.This episode emphasizes that it's never too late to start or restart spiritual formation, offering tangible ways to incorporate faith into daily routines—prayers before bed, family conversations, and visible Christ-centered habits. The stakes are high: without intentionality, kids risk losing their faith during the critical teenage years, but with community support, modeling, and prayer, lasting impact is possible.Whether you're a parent of young children or teens, feeling behind or overwhelmed, the message is simple: God calls you to faithfully lead where you are. You're not alone—this is a practical, hopeful guide to raising the next generation who sees themselves first and foremost as made in God's image.Chandra Pike oversees family ministries at Rocky Mountain Church, brings over 15 years of teaching experience, and passionately advocates for intergenerational worship. Her insights will inspire and equip you to invest in your child's faith with confidence and clarity.Perfect for parents seeking actionable steps, frustrated by cultural challenges, or longing to build a legacy of faith—this episode will motivate you to lead with courage, forget perfection, and trust God's work in your family.
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S2 · E32April 9 · 16 min"Christ, The Victorious One"
In this episode of the Valley Run Podcast, Pastor AJ Dudek delves into the profound spiritual implications of Easter, exploring the victory of Christ over sin and death. The discussion centers on the resurrection as a cosmic declaration of triumph over rebellious spiritual powers, drawing from biblical passages such as 1 Peter 3 and Genesis 6. Pastor AJ emphasizes the ongoing spiritual battle and the need for Christians to remain vigilant and grounded in truth amidst increasing deception. He encourages listeners to foster community, love, and mission as essential responses to the chaotic times. The episode concludes with a preview of upcoming topics, including parenting and deeper theological discussions, aimed at preparing Christians for future challenges.
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S2 · E31March 26 · 48 min"Love and Respect When You Don't Feel It In Your Marriage"
When love feels impossible—especially when emotions fluctuate or fade—faithfulness rooted in gospel truth is what keeps marriages resilient. If you're tired of relying solely on fleeting feelings, this episode offers a paradigm shift. Discover how biblical love and respect, grounded in covenant faithfulness, transcend emotional ups and downs and become the foundation for lasting intimacy.We break down: Why feelings are unreliable indicators of love in marriage, and how faithfulness goes deeper. The biblical model in Ephesians 5: love your wife as Christ loved the church, and respect your husband—without qualifiers or conditions. Practical tools to honor commitments despite frustration, including cultivating patience, humility, and sacrificial love. How understanding your own fears and responses can transform discontent into growth—both personally and relationally. The importance of personal ownership: how an individual's spiritual health propels the health of the marriage, and why blaming won't fix anything. Actionable steps for couples: daily prayer, sincere communication, and nurturing the physical and emotional aspects of intimacy. This episode is essential listening for marriages that have drifted from their biblical moorings or couples seeking to build a more resilient love—regardless of current feelings. The core insight? Love and respect are acts of faithfulness modeled after Christ—an investment in long-term covenant, not just temporary emotion. When faithfulness becomes your daily practice, trust, safety, and affection will follow, even in seasons of emotional dryness.With over 20 years of pastoral experience and a heart for biblical truth, Dr. Joe Urcavich—known for working with couples, leaders, and organizations—shares profound insights on how to live love that endures beyond feelings. His wisdom reminds us that true love is a choice grounded in grace, pursuit, and covenant fidelity.This episode is perfect for those longing to deepen their marriage, reinvest in biblical love, and learn how to navigate the emotional rollercoaster with faith and stability. Hit play and start building a love that lasts through every season. Why this works: The opening immediately appeals to couples frustrated by emotional inconsistency, promising a biblical and practical solution. The description then provides concrete insights, frameworks, and actionable steps that highlight transformation, appealing to both emotional and faith-driven needs. It combines insight, authority, and relatability—inviting listeners to see their marriage through a new, gospel-centered lens.
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S2 · E30March 19 · 54 min"Marriage Communication that Builds Up, Not Breaks Down"
In this episode, Pastor A.J. and Dr. Ken Wilgus share insights on marriage communication, addressing common pitfalls, emotional dynamics, and practical strategies rooted in biblical principles to strengthen relationships.
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S2 · E29March 12 · 58 min"Covenant vs Contract; Why Marriage Reflects Christ and the Church
This episode Pastor AJ and guest, Jess Mahon, explores the biblical understanding of marriage as a covenant, contrasting it with cultural views of marriage as a contract. It offers practical insights on building a gospel-centered marriage, emphasizing sacrifice, forgiveness, and mutual service, all rooted in the example of Christ.
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S2 · E28March 5 · 19 min"The Church: Visible Body or Invisible Community"
In this episode of the Valley Run Podcast, Pastor AJ Dudek delves into the church's purpose and authority, emphasizing that the church is the body of Christ rather than a consumer brand. He distinguishes between the visible local church and the invisible body of believers, explaining that sacraments like baptism and the Lord’s Supper are signs and seals of God’s promises, not salvation itself. Pastor Dudek references a 2025 evangelical survey to highlight current tensions in church life, noting that while 88% attend church, only 57% view it as a spiritual fellowship, 43% see sacraments as symbolic, and 51% affirm the church's authority to administer the word and sacraments. The discussion covers governance, elder oversight, pastoral discipline, and the misuse of power, stressing the importance of due process and restoration as outlined in Matthew 18. It also addresses the integrity needed when leaving a church, the harm caused by mistreatment, and the necessity for humility and unity. The episode concludes with a reminder that Christ reigns and the church will endure, with a promise to explore eschatology in the next session.
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S2 · E27February 12 · 58 min"State of Theology 2025, Salvation and Grace: Free Gift or Earned Reward."
The Valley Run Podcast, featuring Pastors A.J. Dudek and Matt DePriest, delves into profound theological discussions with a warm and engaging approach. In this episode, the pastors explore the enduring tension between grace and works within the Christian faith, examining how these concepts have persisted through generations. They share personal anecdotes and scriptural insights, discussing the anthropological and textual reasons behind this tension. The conversation also touches on the importance of understanding salvation by grace alone, the role of good works, and the challenges of living a faith-driven life in a performance-oriented world. With a focus on pastoral care and practical spirituality, A.J. and Matt offer listeners a thoughtful exploration of faith, identity, and the transformative power of grace.
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S2 · E26February 5 · 51 min"Missions work in Asia and the Power of Transforming your Mind"
In this conversation, Pastor A.J. and Dr. Kennell discuss the journey of church planting in Myanmar, the challenges faced by church planters, and the importance of grounding young theologians in biblical truth. They explore the impact of cultural pressures, particularly the allure of the prosperity gospel, and emphasize the necessity of renewing the mind for spiritual growth. The conversation highlights personal stories of transformation and the role of teaching in equipping church leaders to navigate their ministry effectively.
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S2 · E24January 29 · 56 min"Sacred Geography and the Transfiguration of Christ"
In this conversation, Pastor's A.J. Dudek and Doug Van Dorn explore the concept of sacred geography in the Bible, emphasizing its significance in understanding scripture and the life of Jesus. They discuss how geographical locations play a crucial role in biblical narratives, particularly in the context of the transfiguration and the incarnation of Christ. The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing the cultural and historical context of these locations to fully appreciate their meaning and implications for modern believers.
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S2 · E23January 22 · 47 min"The Origins of the Dragon"
In this episode of The Valley Run Podcast, Pastor A.J. and Doug Van Dorn delve into the intriguing topic of the dragon and its origins, exploring both literal and metaphorical interpretations. They discuss the biblical references to dragons, serpents, and Leviathan, examining how these figures are depicted in Scripture and their connections to chaos and evil. The conversation touches on various cultural myths and theological perspectives, including the role of Satan and the concept of chaos in the Garden of Eden. Through a blend of scriptural analysis and cultural insights, the hosts aim to provide a deeper understanding of these ancient symbols and their relevance to contemporary spiritual questions.