In this episode of The Mountain Top Experience Podcast, hosts Kevin, Carlos, and Dave sit down with pastor and author Russ Bradley for a meaningful and practical conversation about identity, purpose, and living out your faith in today’s world.
Russ serves as Senior Pastor of New Hope Baptist Church in Earl, North Carolina, and brings decades of pastoral experience, a heart for missions, and a deep passion for helping people grow closer to the Lord. He shares from his newly released book, Be Who God Created You to Be: Living Out Your Faith in Today’s World (January 17, 2025), offering insight drawn from Scripture, real-life experience, and a life rooted in Christ.
In a culture that constantly pulls us in different directions, Russ reminds us that we were made for more than just getting by. We were made to reflect Jesus. Through this conversation, he unpacks what it looks like to stop drifting and start living with clarity, conviction, and purpose.
The book walks readers through 20 practical, biblical traits of a fully surrendered believer, from obedience and stillness to Spirit-filled living and transformation. It is not self-help. It is a spiritual roadmap for becoming who God designed you to be.
Russ is also a husband to Melody, father of three daughters, and grandfather of six. His life and message reflect both theological depth and lived experience, shaped by his Master of Divinity from Gardner-Webb University and his background in business from Appalachian State University.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
• How to live out your faith in a culture that pulls you off course
• Why becoming who God created you to be starts with surrender, not striving
• The key traits that shape a fully formed follower of Christ
• How to grow deeper in prayer, holiness, and Spirit-led living
About the Book:
Be Who God Created You to Be: Living Out Your Faith in Today’s World is available now on Amazon and has already received strong reviews from readers seeking a deeper walk with God. This book will challenge and equip you to live with boldness, clarity, and purpose as a disciple of Jesus.
Connect with Russ Bradley:
Learn more about Russ, his ministry, and his resources at russbradley.com
Listen in and be reminded:
Becoming who God created you to be isn’t about doing more. It’s about becoming more like Christ.