Level Up Podcast

New Years Resolutions for 2026 That STICK

Pastor Souzy — Thu, 01 Jan 2026 12:00:00 -0800

Tired of making New Year’s resolutions that fall apart by February? In this powerful episode of the Level Up Podcast, Pastor Souzy and Pastor AJ Valdez show you how to build systems instead of just goals so you can finally become who God created you to be in 2026.

They talk about why most resolutions fail, how planning and faith work together, and how small daily habits can lead to massive, life-changing results. From health and relationships to prayer and spiritual growth, this episode gives you practical tools to stop starting over and start leveling up for real.

You’ll learn:

Why hope is not a strategy
How to turn goals into systems that work
Why consistency beats motivation
How prayer changes everything
How to build habits that actually last

Whether you want to get healthier, grow spiritually, strengthen your marriage, or finally follow through on what God has called you to do, this episode will help you step into 2026 with clarity and confidence.

🕹️ Level Up your life, faith, and leadership — one habit at a time.

Keeping Jesus in Christmas

Pastor Souzy — Thu, 18 Dec 2025 12:00:00 -0800

In this special Christmas episode of the Level Up Podcast, Pastors Souzy and AJ Valdez take a lighthearted yet meaningful look at Christmas traditions — and ask the most important question of the season:

👉 How do we celebrate Christmas without leaving Jesus out?

From childhood memories and funny family traditions to practical ways to lead your home spiritually, this episode reminds us that while gifts, movies, food, and traditions are good — Jesus is the reason for the season.

Whether you’re a parent, a gamer, newly married, or navigating Christmas in a busy and stressful season, this conversation will encourage you to be intentional, present, and Christ-centered this Christmas.

Should Christian Gamers Tithe?

Pastor Souzy — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 12:00:00 -0800

In this episode of the Level Up Podcast, Pastors Souzy and AJ Valdez tackle one of the most misunderstood and debated topics in the church: tithing.

Is tithing required for Christians?
Is it biblical?
Is it legalism?
And… should gamers tithe?

This episode breaks down:
🎮 The purpose of tithing in Scripture
📖 The difference between Old Testament law & New Testament generosity
❤️ Why giving is about the heart, not the percentage
🙏 How generosity unlocks spiritual growth and freedom
💬 Common misconceptions Christians have about money and tithing
🕹️ What it looks like for digital believers & gamers in an online church

Whether you're skeptical about tithing, new to Christianity, or wanting to honor God with your finances, this conversation will help you understand the heart behind generosity and how giving plays a part in leveling up your faith.

Should I honor BAD People?

Pastor Souzy — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 12:00:00 -0800

In this episode of the Level Up Podcast, Pastors Souzy and AJ Valdez wrestle with a challenging and uncomfortable Christian question:

👉 Are we called to honor people—even when they don’t deserve it?

From difficult leaders, toxic people, and broken relationships to public figures and even parents who failed us, honor doesn’t always feel fair or easy. But Scripture commands us to honor others—not because of who they are, but because of who God is and who we are becoming.

This episode explores:

The difference between honoring someone vs approving of them
How honor impacts spiritual maturity
What Jesus modeled when faced with betrayal, power, and injustice
When boundaries are biblical
Why honor is not weakness, but a kingdom mindset

Whether you’re struggling with authority, healing from past hurt, or just want to grow in maturity and leadership — this episode will challenge and equip you to reflect Christ in every area of your life.

🎮 The Level Up Podcast: Helping gamers grow in faith, leadership, and spiritual maturity.
📅 New episodes weekly.

Streamer Fandom or Idolatry? Where’s the Line?

Pastor Souzy — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 12:00:00 -0800

In this week’s episode of the Level Up Podcast, Pastors Souzy and AJ Valdez dive deep into a question that hits close to home for every gamer and streamer — when does fandom cross the line into idolatry? From the Streamer Awards and Forrest Frank controversy to how we view our favorite creators, this episode challenges us to ask: 👉 Who or what are we truly running to for joy and fulfillment? 👉 Can Christians be fans of others without making them idols? 👉 How do we glorify God while still enjoying content, art, and entertainment? Join the conversation as Pastor Souzy and Pastor AJ talk honestly about balance, influence, humility, and worship, helping gamers discern where admiration turns into obsession — and how to keep Jesus at the center of it all. 🎮 About the Level Up Podcast A show designed to help gamers level up in life, faith, and leadership. New episodes every Thursday at 3PM EST.

Pastors Share Jesus with Streamers at TwitchCon

Pastor Souzy — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 12:26:57 -0700

In this episode of the Level Up Podcast, Pastor Souzy and Pastor AJ Valdez take on one of the hardest but most important topics in Christianity: how to talk about sin in a way that is truthful yet loving. Too often, churches either avoid the subject of sin entirely or approach it in ways that feel harsh, judgmental, or even hateful. But the Bible calls us to preach the whole truth—with clarity, conviction, and compassion. Souzy and AJ dive into Scripture, pastoral experiences, and practical advice on how to lovingly address sin in a culture that often rejects biblical truth. This conversation will challenge and equip you to share God’s Word with both boldness and gentleness. 📖 Scriptures Shared: 2 Timothy 3:16–17, John 15–16, 1 Peter 3:15 🎯 Theme: Preaching truth with love, navigating cultural tensions, clarity on sin and the gospe

Should Christians Celebrate Halloween

Pastor Souzy — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 12:00:00 -0700

In this episode of the Level Up Podcast, Pastor Souzy and Pastor AJ Valdez dive into one of the most debated topics among believers — Should Christians celebrate Halloween? 🎃 They unpack the origins of Halloween, its connection to ancient traditions, and how the modern celebration has shifted. More importantly, they explore what the Bible says about Christian liberty, conviction, and representing Christ in a culture filled with compromise. Whether you’re a parent wondering how to guide your kids, or a believer trying to navigate your faith in a spooky season, this episode will help you find biblical wisdom and balance — without fear or legalism. 📖 Scriptures Mentioned: Romans 14, 1 Corinthians 10, Ephesians 5:8–11 🎯 Theme: Christian liberty, holiness, discernment, cultural engagement

CEO of Twitch Stands Before Congress & What Does This Mean for Christians

Pastor Souzy — Thu, 09 Oct 2025 12:00:00 -0700

In this episode of the Level Up Podcast, Pastor Souzy and Pastor AJ Valdez break down breaking news: the CEO of Twitch, Reddit, Discord, and Steam have been called before Congress.

What does this mean for Christians who use these platforms for ministry and community? Could changes in free speech and content moderation impact the way believers share the gospel online?

Souzy and AJ also share their excitement about TwitchCon 2025, their ministry goals at the convention, and how God can use even gaming events for eternal impact. This episode is a wake-up call to be prayerful, prepared, and bold in sharing Christ in a world that’s changing faster than ever.

📖 Scriptures Shared: John 16:2, Matthew 24, Isaiah 5:20
🎯 Theme: Freedom of speech, end times readiness, evangelism in digital spaces

How to Talk About Sin Without Being Hateful

Pastor Souzy — Thu, 02 Oct 2025 12:00:00 -0700

In this episode of the Level Up Podcast, Pastor Souzy and Pastor AJ Valdez take on one of the hardest but most important topics in Christianity: how to talk about sin in a way that is truthful yet loving.

Too often, churches either avoid the subject of sin entirely or approach it in ways that feel harsh, judgmental, or even hateful. But the Bible calls us to preach the whole truth—with clarity, conviction, and compassion.

Souzy and AJ dive into Scripture, pastoral experiences, and practical advice on how to lovingly address sin in a culture that often rejects biblical truth. This conversation will challenge and equip you to share God’s Word with both boldness and gentleness.

📖 Scriptures Shared: 2 Timothy 3:16–17, John 15–16, 1 Peter 3:15
🎯 Theme: Preaching truth with love, navigating cultural tensions, clarity on sin and the gospel

Stories of God's Miracles

Pastor Souzy — Thu, 25 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0700

In this episode of the Level Up Podcast, Pastor Souzy and Pastor AJ Valdez share real stories of God’s miracles—from healing and provision to doors opening in impossible situations. Sometimes we forget that the same God who parted the Red Sea and raised the dead is still moving today. These testimonies are a reminder that He is active, present, and still doing the miraculous in our lives.

If you’ve been waiting on God for a breakthrough, this conversation will encourage your faith and remind you that He’s not finished with your story.

📖 Scriptures Shared: John 14:12–14, Hebrews 13:8, Acts 2
🎮 Theme: Miracles in real life & modern ministry

Suffering Makes You Strong

Pastor Souzy — Thu, 18 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0700

In this powerful episode of the Level Up Podcast, Pastor Souzy and Pastor AJ Valdez dive deep into one of the hardest yet most necessary topics in the Christian life: suffering. Why does God allow us to suffer? How can we find joy in trials? And what does it mean when Scripture says that perseverance produces maturity? From real-life stories of loss and hardship to lessons learned through gaming analogies (yes, even Mythic+ dungeons), this conversation will encourage you to embrace suffering as a tool God uses to strengthen your faith.

Whether you’re walking through tragedy, facing challenges, or just wrestling with why life isn’t easy, this episode reminds us that suffering isn’t meaningless—it makes you strong in Christ.

Your Calling is Customized

Pastor Souzy — Thu, 04 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0700

In this episode of the Level Up Podcast, Pastor Souzy and Pastor Nfluence unpack the truth that your calling is unique, intentional, and custom-made by God. Too often, we compare ourselves to others—pastors, leaders, streamers, or even friends—and feel like our calling doesn’t measure up. But what if the very differences that make you feel “less than” are exactly how God designed you to impact the world?

From David’s sling instead of Saul’s armor to navigating the challenges of online ministry, Souzy and Nfluence share real stories of comparison, obedience, and boldness. You’ll be encouraged to stop trying to fit into someone else’s calling and embrace the one God has handcrafted for you. 🎮 Whether you’re a gamer, creator, or leader, this episode will challenge you to see your life as a custom calling with eternal purpose.

Have We Made the Gospel TOO Easy to Follow?

Pastor Souzy — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 12:00:00 -0700

In this episode of the Level Up Podcast, Pastor Souzy and Pastor AJ Valdez tackle a challenging question: Have we made the gospel too easy to follow?For decades, much of the church has emphasized the peace, love, and joy Jesus offers—but have we unintentionally left out the cost of following Him? Together, Souzy and AJ discuss the tension between presenting the gospel as the free gift of salvation and the reality that it also requires full surrender.

Chapters / Timestamps

00:00 Intro & Welcome Back
02:40 Have We Made the Gospel Too Easy?
07:10 Free Gift vs. Full Surrender
12:05 The Cost of Following Jesus
18:20 Evangelism & “Trying God”
24:15 The Role of Discipleship
30:05 Jesus’ Evangelism Strategy
36:40 Sharing the Whole Story
42:55 Counting the Cost
47:20 Final Takeaways & Challenge

Church Attendance is DOWN: Here's Why

Pastor Souzy — Thu, 07 Aug 2025 12:00:00 -0700

Why is church attendance declining across the globe? In this episode of the Level Up Podcast, Pastors Souzy and Nfluence dive deep into the shifting landscape of modern church culture. From seeker-sensitive models to the hunger for authentic community and biblical depth, they unpack how churches are rethinking Sunday services, discipleship, and preaching styles. Whether you're a church leader, committed Christian, or curious gamer trying to understand faith in today's world — this episode will challenge, encourage, and equip you to see where the Church is headed and how we can all be part of its future. 🎙️ The Level Up Podcast from XP Church is designed for gamers who want to level up in life, faith, and leadership.

Raising Teenagers God’s Way

Pastor Souzy — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 12:00:00 -0700

Raising teenagers is no joke. In this honest and powerful episode, Pastor Souzy and AJVALDEZ share real struggles, spiritual insights, and biblical wisdom for navigating one of parenting’s most challenging seasons—God’s way. Whether you're a parent, a mentor, or someone walking with teens in any capacity, this conversation will equip and encourage you to lead with grace, strength, and faith.

Spiritual Warfare & How to Win the Battle

Pastor Souzy — Thu, 24 Jul 2025 12:00:00 -0700

You’re in a war—whether you realize it or not. In this powerful episode, Pastor Souzy and AJVALDEZ open up about spiritual warfare: what it is, how it shows up in our lives, and most importantly, how to fight back. They share wild stories, biblical insights, and real-life tools to help you walk in victory. If you've been feeling attacked, anxious, or spiritually stuck—this episode is for you.

How to Make Disciples

Pastor Souzy — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 12:00:00 -0700

What does it really mean to make disciples in today's world? In this episode of the Level Up Podcast, Pastor Souzy and AJVALDEZ get real about the call to discipleship. From personal moments of spiritual growth to the challenges of mentoring others in faith, this episode breaks down the why, how, and cost of following Jesus and helping others do the same. Whether you're a leader, a new believer, or someone feeling stuck in your walk, this episode will encourage and challenge you to step into your purpose. 👥 Disciples aren't mass-produced—they're made one relationship at a time.

God's Timing

Pastor Souzy — Thu, 10 Jul 2025 12:00:00 -0700

Ever felt like you’re falling behind in life? Like you should be further along by now? In this episode of the Level Up Podcast, Pastor Souzy and AJVALDEZ talk about God’s timing—why delays don’t mean denial, and how faith grows strongest in the waiting room. This one’s for anyone who feels stuck or uncertain about what’s next. Don’t miss it. 💬 Leave your thoughts in the comments — what’s one moment where God’s timing surprised you? 🎮 Level Up isn’t just a podcast. It’s a call to become who you were created to be.

How to Level Up Your Prayer Life

Pastor Souzy — Thu, 03 Jul 2025 12:00:00 -0700

What if the distractions you're trying to avoid in prayer are the very things God wants to use to speak to you? In this episode, Pastor Souzy flips the script on how we view interruptions during prayer and how they can become gateways to deeper intimacy with God. 🎯 It’s not about perfect focus—it’s about honest connection.

A Rhythm of Rest

Pastor Souzy — Thu, 26 Jun 2025 12:00:00 -0700

Why are you always tired—even after sleep, even after vacation? In this episode, Pastor Souzy uncovers the deeper reasons behind chronic exhaustion. It’s not just physical—your soul could be running on empty. Discover the power of rest, rhythms, and the real solution your spirit is craving. 📌 This episode might be the wake-up call you didn’t know you needed.

Build A Life You LOVE

Pastor Souzy — Thu, 19 Jun 2025 12:00:00 -0700

You weren’t created to just survive — you were made to build a life you love. In this empowering episode of the Level Up Podcast, Pastor Souzy walks through how to stop settling, start building with God’s blueprint, and live with purpose and joy. From small habits to major mindset shifts, this message will challenge you to partner with God in building the future He’s called you to. Don’t drift through life — design it with intention.

The Power of Friendship

Pastor Souzy — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 12:00:00 -0700

In this episode of the Level Up Podcast, Pastor Souzy explores the spiritual and practical power of real friendship. From Jonathan and David to Jesus and His disciples, we see that friendships rooted in faith can change lives, shape destiny, and carry us through our darkest moments.

Whether you're struggling to find real community or wondering how to be a better friend — this episode will challenge and inspire you.

How to Have Hard Conversations

Pastor Souzy — Thu, 05 Jun 2025 12:00:00 -0700

In Episode 7 of the Level Up Podcast, Pastor Souzy challenges us to stop waiting for a platform and start building the character God wants in us. This episode dives deep into what it takes to lead with integrity, stay consistent in private, and level up in every area of your life — even when no one is watching.

People Hurt

Pastor Souzy — Thu, 29 May 2025 12:00:00 -0700

People hurt you. Leaders failed you. Maybe it wasn’t just one moment—it was years of feeling unseen, overlooked, or straight-up betrayed. But what if your pain isn’t pointless? In this episode, Pastor Souzy opens up about how the wounds from your past—especially from people you trusted—can become the soil where purpose grows. You’re not disqualified. You’re being refined. If you've ever asked, “Why did they do that to me?”—this one’s for you.

How to Discover Your Purpose

Pastor Souzy — Thu, 22 May 2025 11:51:32 -0700

You were made for more—on purpose, for a purpose. In this powerful episode, Pastor Souzy dives into what it means to live out your calling even when life feels confusing, discouraging, or stagnant. This is for anyone who’s ever asked, “God, do I really matter?” 🔥 Get ready to be reminded: Your story isn’t over, and your purpose is bigger than you think.

When Life Doesn’t Go According to Plan

Pastor Souzy — Thu, 15 May 2025 21:00:00 -0700

What do you do when life takes an unexpected turn? In this heartfelt episode of the Level Up Podcast, Pastor Souzy sits down with special guest Pastor AJ Valdez to explore what it means to trust God when your plans fall apart. From growing up in South Central LA, to planting roots in Ireland for 22 years, to pioneering a print shop–turned–LAN center, Pastor AJ shares his incredible story of faith, obedience, and perseverance.

Whether you're a gamer, a leader, or someone in a season of uncertainty, this episode is packed with encouragement and purpose.

I Was Wrong

Pastor Souzy — Thu, 08 May 2025 12:00:00 -0700

What do you do when all your efforts feel wasted and nobody shows up? In this episode, Pastor Souzy gets raw and real about the early struggles of ministry, the pain of disappointment, and the deep lessons God teaches us in moments of obscurity. If you've ever felt unseen or overlooked, this episode is for you.

🎮 Faith, leadership, and real-life lessons—Level Up starts here.

Chapters:
0:00 Nobody Showed Up
6:27 Finding Friendship in Failure
13:26 The Power of Humility
19:57 Wrestling with Doubt
26:44 When It Feels Pointless
33:39 God Still Shows Up

Get Connected!
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How Gamers Can Overcome Struggles and Hardship

Pastor Souzy — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 16:59:26 -0700

“God, why? Why do I have this disability? Why was my dad taken from me?” If you've ever asked God "Why me?", this message is for you. We dive deep into the struggles, the raw emotions, and the real stories of faith through pain. You’re not alone—and even in your hardest questions, God is working something beautiful in your life. Whether you're feeling frustrated, confused, or just trying to understand your purpose, join us for this powerful, hope-filled conversation that doesn’t shy away from the hard stuff. Let’s explore how our struggles might just be the setup for something greater.

Follow Pastor Nfluence on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/pastornfluence
Follow Pastor Nfluence on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pastornfluence

How to Become A Leader

Pastor Souzy — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 17:38:26 -0700

Welcome to the very first episode of the Level Up Podcast! 🚀

Gamers, it’s time to realize something powerful: You have an incredible purpose. This podcast is here to help you discover it, step into leadership, and start making a real impact—not just in your guild or game, but in your world.

In this episode, Pastor Souzy breaks down why great leaders aren’t born—they’re built.

⏱️Timestamps:
00:00 Opening: Purpose, Character, and Leadership Intro
00:38 Launching the Podcast: Dreams and Vision
00:55 Why Start a Podcast: Heart Behind It
01:45 You Can Be a Leader: Shaping Your Mindset
02:04 The Journey So Far: Impacting the Gaming Community
02:35 Lessons Learned: More Than Just Streaming
03:13 How We Transform the Gaming Community
04:08 Leadership: The Key to Change
04:46 Redefining Influence and Leadership
05:35 Multiplying Leadership Across Gamers
05:58 Leveling Up Beyond Streaming: Building Leaders
06:15 Who This Podcast Is For: Growth-Oriented Gamers
06:52 Format Overview: Teaching + Guests
07:50 Weekly Upload Schedule (Twitch + YouTube)
08:10 Main Topic Introduction: You Can Be a Leader
08:30 Misconceptions About Leadership
09:50 True Leadership = Living a Life Worth Following
11:11 Choosing to Grow: You Can Be a Leader
12:53 Living a Life Worth Following (No Titles Needed)
13:32 Why You're Not Being Promoted Yet
14:14 Action Steps: How to Start Leading
14:40 Practical Step 1 Learn to Feed Yourself
15:00 Gaming Analogy: How to Level Up
16:10 Finding Your "XP" in Life
17:25 Growth Requires Intentional Sacrifice
18:07 Feeding Yourself Daily: Practical Tips
19:08 No One Is Coming to Push You to Grow
20:15 Curating Your Social Media Algorithms
21:25 How to Build Growth-Focused Playlists
22:36 Why Short Clips Are Powerful for Growth
23:52 Rejecting the Victim Mentality
25:03 Feed Yourself Growth Is Your Responsibility
26:05 Practical Step 2 Who Are You Surrounding Yourself With
26:54 Understanding Mentor Mentee and Mutual Relationships
29:47 Building True Mutual Friendships
31:19 The Critical Value of Having Mentors
33:03 Being Honest About Your Friendships
35:05 How Friendships Affect Your Growth
36:49 Redefining Relationships if Needed
38:12 Leaving Behind Those Who Won't Grow
40:03 How to Lead Your Friends to Growth
41:42 Redefining Not Always Ending Relationships
42:51 Taking Ownership of Your Growth Journey
43:34 Vision for the Podcast Featuring People Worth Following
44:14 Closing Thoughts and Final Encouragement

Whether you're a Twitch streamer, a casual gamer, or someone just looking to grow, this episode is for YOU.

🗓️ New episodes every Thursday. Recorded live Wednesdays on Twitch at https://twitch.tv/xpchurchforgamers!

🎧 Listen, apply, and let’s LEVEL UP together.
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