In this episode of Beyond the Huddle, hosts Zach Rose and Josh Adair sit down with Mitch Ward, owner of Red River Auto Group and a passionate supporter of FCA, to explore what it looks like to live out faith beyond the playing field. Mitch shares his journey from ministry aspirations to marketplace leadership, how God has shaped his heart for generosity and community impact, and why he views business as a mission field. From investing in student-athletes and schools to building a Christ-centered culture within his dealerships, this conversation highlights servant leadership, bold faith, and the power of using everyday influence for eternal purpose.

In this episode of Beyond the Huddle, hosts Zach Rose and Josh Adair sit down with Mitch Ward, owner of Red River Auto Group and a passionate supporter of FCA, to explore what it looks like to live out faith beyond the playing field. Mitch shares his journey from ministry aspirations to marketplace leadership, how God has shaped his heart for generosity and community impact, and why he views business as a mission field. From investing in student-athletes and schools to building a Christ-centered culture within his dealerships, this conversation highlights servant leadership, bold faith, and the power of using everyday influence for eternal purpose.

Beyond the Huddle - Central Arkansas FCA

Beyond the Huddle

Beyond the Huddle Ep 38 -Beyond the Huddle: Faith, Business, and Kingdom Impact with Mitch Ward

Most people see motocross as just a high-adrenaline sport, but what if it could be a powerful platform for life-changing gospel conversations? Tanner Smith, FCA staff member and motocross enthusiast, reveals how this high-octane world is becoming a space where faith and competition collide in the most impactful ways.In this episode, you’ll discover how Tanner’s passion for riding became a ministry to bring hope and redemption to a diverse crowd—from struggling individuals to well-established professionals. Tanner shares stories that will inspire you to see your sport or arena as a mission field—whether it’s on the track, in the stands, or across the country. He breaks down practical ways to engage athletes and fans at races, from trackside devotionals to hosting camps abroad, all while navigating the unique challenges of motorsports ministry.We also dive into the power of faith in action—with real stories of lives transformed through simple acts of showing up, building relationships, and sharing the love of Christ in unlikely places. Tanner emphasizes that God-sized dreams aren’t just for someone else—they’re for you, too. If you’ve ever felt called to reach a ‘different world’ for Jesus, this episode will ignite your courage to take those first steps.Perfect for coaches, athletes, sports ministry volunteers, or anyone longing to see their passion turn into purpose—this is the episode that reminds us: the Holy Spirit can move through your obedience, no matter how intimidating the arena. You’ll walk away encouraged, equipped, and inspired to turn your sport into a platform for eternal impact.Tanner Smith is FCA’s Motorsports minister, known for his passion for motocross and his stories of lives changed through motorsports ministry. He’s seen firsthand how the Gospel can cross boundaries once we show up, listen, and trust God with the outcomes.Ready to see your sport in a whole new light? Hit play to discover how you can use your passion to impact eternity—because with God, the race is just getting started.

 

Reaching Athletes and Coaches Through FCA Motorsports and MotocrossDiscover how FCA is expanding beyond traditional sports to reach athletes and coaches through motorsports, especially motocross. Join Zach Rose and Tanner Smith as they share inspiring stories of faith in a high-octane world, practical strategies for ministry, and God-sized dreams unfolding in competitive environments.In this episode:
The origins of Tanner Smith’s passion for motocross and FCA’s involvement in motorsports
How FCA motorsports uses race events and relationships to share the gospel
Stories of redemption, faith, and life change at motocross races
The importance of stepping outside comfort zones into different arenas like motorsports and wrestling
Practical ways to get involved in motorsports ministry, including trackside and event-based opportunities
Insights from a televised panel appearance at a supercross race
The power of prayer, faith, and boldness in ministry expansion

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction to FCA’s mission of faith meeting competition
00:31 - Welcoming Tanner Smith and his journey with FCA motorsports
01:24 - Tanner’s background and how he got involved in motocross and FCA
02:45 - The growth of FCA motorsports and its diverse reach
03:41 - Tanner’s passion and how it has shaped his ministry approach
04:33 - Building relationships at races and connecting through shared interests
05:00 - Starting in arena cross and early faith experiences in motocross
06:29 - Balancing motocross participation with church and ministry commitments
07:57 - The growth of FCA motocross and FCA’s broader impact in motorsports
08:54 - From athlete to FCA staff: shifting perspectives and maintaining authenticity
09:24 - Engaging with athletes in their world for meaningful gospel conversations
10:21 - The importance of relatability and shared experiences in ministry
11:19 - Transitioning from intern to staff and the role of support from family and mentors
12:48 - Practical structures for pursuing athletes and building ministry at races
13:45 - How race series function like our "campus" and building relationships with track owners
15:13 - The rhythms of race weekends, conversations around campfires, and relationships built over time
16:39 - Camps and the extended opportunity for lasting impact
17:02 - Overcoming fears and stepping into new arenas with faith and obedience
18:03 - The significance of showing up and trusting the Holy Spirit’s lead in outreach
19:10 - Impact stories: redemption, reconciliation, and life transformation at races
20:29 - The power of shared experiences and God bringing people together
21:26 - A memorable story of gospel impact at motocross events
22:25 - God’s work in the lives of individuals with difficult pasts through motocross ministry
24:44 - The redemptive story of a racer reconnecting with family and faith
26:14 - Unique opportunities to witness and serve in unlikely arenas
27:39 - Addressing doubts and fears about ministry and taking bold steps of faith
28:39 - Living out biblical truths practically in motocross and beyond
30:06 - How to get involved in motocross or motorsports ministry despite imperfections
31:33 - Simple steps: show up, build relationships, and be obedient
32:04 - Volunteer opportunities at camps and races; the value of every role
33:00 - Practical tips for trackside ministry at races and how to start
34:26 - Official resources for FCA motorsports and how to connect
35:21 - What motocross races feel like — adrenaline and intensity explained
36:45 - The physical challenge of pro races and the athletes’ endurance
38:10 - The diverse range of athletes in motocross from amateur to pro
39:10 - Exciting moments: appearing on TV and sharing FCA’s message on big stages
44:00 - Reflecting on God’s opportunities and the importance of faith-filled dreams
45:00 - Encouragement to ask big and trust God for open doors
46:56 - living in faith, small steps, and God’s sovereignty in ministry
48:18 - The significance of bold prayers and stepping into God’s larger plans
49:44 - Closing thoughts: faith, obedience, and God’s greater purpose in our livesResources & Links:
FCA Motorsports
FCA Motorsports Official Site
FCA MX on Instagram

Connect with Tanner Smith:
LinkedIn
Twitter

Remember: Faithfulness in small steps opens the doors to God's big plans. Trust Him to do the impossible as you step into new arenas for His glory.

Most people see motocross as just a high-adrenaline sport, but what if it could be a powerful platform for life-changing gospel conversations? Tanner Smith, FCA staff member and motocross enthusiast, reveals how this high-octane world is becoming a space where faith and competition collide in the most impactful ways.In this episode, you&rsquo;ll discover how Tanner&rsquo;s passion for riding became a ministry to bring hope and redemption to a diverse crowd&mdash;from struggling individuals to well-established professionals. Tanner shares stories that will inspire you to see your sport or arena as a mission field&mdash;whether it&rsquo;s on the track, in the stands, or across the country. He breaks down practical ways to engage athletes and fans at races, from trackside devotionals to hosting camps abroad, all while navigating the unique challenges of motorsports ministry.We also dive into the power of faith in action&mdash;with real stories of lives transformed through simple acts of showing up, building relationships, and sharing the love of Christ in unlikely places. Tanner emphasizes that God-sized dreams aren&rsquo;t just for someone else&mdash;they&rsquo;re for you, too. If you&rsquo;ve ever felt called to reach a &lsquo;different world&rsquo; for Jesus, this episode will ignite your courage to take those first steps.Perfect for coaches, athletes, sports ministry volunteers, or anyone longing to see their passion turn into purpose&mdash;this is the episode that reminds us: the Holy Spirit can move through your obedience, no matter how intimidating the arena. You&rsquo;ll walk away encouraged, equipped, and inspired to turn your sport into a platform for eternal impact.Tanner Smith is FCA&rsquo;s Motorsports minister, known for his passion for motocross and his stories of lives changed through motorsports ministry. He&rsquo;s seen firsthand how the Gospel can cross boundaries once we show up, listen, and trust God with the outcomes.Ready to see your sport in a whole new light? Hit play to discover how you can use your passion to impact eternity&mdash;because with God, the race is just getting started.
&nbsp;
Reaching Athletes and Coaches Through FCA Motorsports and MotocrossDiscover how FCA is expanding beyond traditional sports to reach athletes and coaches through motorsports, especially motocross. Join Zach Rose and Tanner Smith as they share inspiring stories of faith in a high-octane world, practical strategies for ministry, and God-sized dreams unfolding in competitive environments.In this episode:
<ul>
<li>The origins of Tanner Smith&rsquo;s passion for motocross and FCA&rsquo;s involvement in motorsports</li>
<li>How FCA motorsports uses race events and relationships to share the gospel</li>
<li>Stories of redemption, faith, and life change at motocross races</li>
<li>The importance of stepping outside comfort zones into different arenas like motorsports and wrestling</li>
<li>Practical ways to get involved in motorsports ministry, including trackside and event-based opportunities</li>
<li>Insights from a televised panel appearance at a supercross race</li>
<li>The power of prayer, faith, and boldness in ministry expansion</li>
</ul>
Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to FCA&rsquo;s mission of faith meeting competition 00:31 - Welcoming Tanner Smith and his journey with FCA motorsports 01:24 - Tanner&rsquo;s background and how he got involved in motocross and FCA 02:45 - The growth of FCA motorsports and its diverse reach 03:41 - Tanner&rsquo;s passion and how it has shaped his ministry approach 04:33 - Building relationships at races and connecting through shared interests 05:00 - Starting in arena cross and early faith experiences in motocross 06:29 - Balancing motocross participation with church and ministry commitments 07:57 - The growth of FCA motocross and FCA&rsquo;s broader impact in motorsports 08:54 - From athlete to FCA staff: shifting perspectives and maintaining authenticity 09:24 - Engaging with athletes in their world for meaningful gospel conversations 10:21 - The importance of relatability and shared experiences in ministry 11:19 - Transitioning from intern to staff and the role of support from family and mentors 12:48 - Practical structures for pursuing athletes and building ministry at races 13:45 - How race series function like our "campus" and building relationships with track owners 15:13 - The rhythms of race weekends, conversations around campfires, and relationships built over time 16:39 - Camps and the extended opportunity for lasting impact 17:02 - Overcoming fears and stepping into new arenas with faith and obedience 18:03 - The significance of showing up and trusting the Holy Spirit&rsquo;s lead in outreach 19:10 - Impact stories: redemption, reconciliation, and life transformation at races 20:29 - The power of shared experiences and God bringing people together 21:26 - A memorable story of gospel impact at motocross events 22:25 - God&rsquo;s work in the lives of individuals with difficult pasts through motocross ministry 24:44 - The redemptive story of a racer reconnecting with family and faith 26:14 - Unique opportunities to witness and serve in unlikely arenas 27:39 - Addressing doubts and fears about ministry and taking bold steps of faith 28:39 - Living out biblical truths practically in motocross and beyond 30:06 - How to get involved in motocross or motorsports ministry despite imperfections 31:33 - Simple steps: show up, build relationships, and be obedient 32:04 - Volunteer opportunities at camps and races; the value of every role 33:00 - Practical tips for trackside ministry at races and how to start 34:26 - Official resources for FCA motorsports and how to connect 35:21 - What motocross races feel like &mdash; adrenaline and intensity explained 36:45 - The physical challenge of pro races and the athletes&rsquo; endurance 38:10 - The diverse range of athletes in motocross from amateur to pro 39:10 - Exciting moments: appearing on TV and sharing FCA&rsquo;s message on big stages 44:00 - Reflecting on God&rsquo;s opportunities and the importance of faith-filled dreams 45:00 - Encouragement to ask big and trust God for open doors 46:56 - living in faith, small steps, and God&rsquo;s sovereignty in ministry 48:18 - The significance of bold prayers and stepping into God&rsquo;s larger plans 49:44 - Closing thoughts: faith, obedience, and God&rsquo;s greater purpose in our livesResources &amp; Links:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://fcamx.org/">FCA Motorsports</a></li>
<li><a href="https://fcamotorsports.com/">FCA Motorsports Official Site</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/fcamx/">FCA MX on Instagram</a></li>
</ul>
Connect with Tanner Smith:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://linkedin.com/in/tannersmith">LinkedIn</a></li>
<li><a href="https://twitter.com/TannerSmith">Twitter</a></li>
</ul>
Remember: Faithfulness in small steps opens the doors to God's big plans. Trust Him to do the impossible as you step into new arenas for His glory.

Title: From Racer to Minister: The Transformation That Powers FCA's Impact in Motocross

In this episode of Beyond the Huddle, host Zach Rose sits down with North Little Rock Athletic Director Wes Belon and FCA Ambassador Johnny Rice to talk about leadership, coaching culture, and faith in athletics. They share stories from their championship basketball years, the importance of relationships in coaching, and how FCA is impacting student-athletes at North Little Rock High School. This conversation dives into how faith, teamwork, and servant leadership can shape lives far beyond the game.

In this episode of Beyond the Huddle, host Zach Rose sits down with North Little Rock Athletic Director Wes Belon and FCA Ambassador Johnny Rice to talk about leadership, coaching culture, and faith in athletics. They share stories from their championship basketball years, the importance of relationships in coaching, and how FCA is impacting student-athletes at North Little Rock High School. This conversation dives into how faith, teamwork, and servant leadership can shape lives far beyond the game.

Building Championship Culture Through Faith | Wes Belon & Johnny Rice | Beyond the Huddle Podcast

In this episode of Beyond the Huddle, Zach sits down with longtime Arkansas Travelers chaplain Lance Kaufman to talk baseball, identity, and what it looks like to disciple professional athletes in the grind of minor league baseball.

From clubhouse conversations to chapel services, they unpack how the gospel shifts players from working for their identity to living from it. They share stories from the Arkansas Travelers, reflect on the pressure of performance, and discuss why community is essential — even in a crowded clubhouse.

Plus: hot dogs vs. nachos, high socks vs. long pants, and what your walk-up song says about you.

Whether you're an athlete, coach, or simply navigating performance-driven pressure in your own life, this episode is a reminder that your value isn't found in a stat line — it's found in Christ.

In this episode of Beyond the Huddle, Zach sits down with longtime Arkansas Travelers chaplain Lance Kaufman to talk baseball, identity, and what it looks like to disciple professional athletes in the grind of minor league baseball.
From clubhouse conversations to chapel services, they unpack how the gospel shifts players from working for their identity to living from it. They share stories from the Arkansas Travelers, reflect on the pressure of performance, and discuss why community is essential &mdash; even in a crowded clubhouse.
Plus: hot dogs vs. nachos, high socks vs. long pants, and what your walk-up song says about you.
Whether you're an athlete, coach, or simply navigating performance-driven pressure in your own life, this episode is a reminder that your value isn't found in a stat line &mdash; it's found in Christ.

Beyond the Huddle Ep 38 -Beyond the Huddle: Faith, Business, and Kingdom Impact with Mitch Ward

Beyond the Huddle - Central Arkansas FCA

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