About this episode
In this episode, Tommy begins by reflecting on the idea that life is lived in context, and that the experiences and environments we are born into shape the people we become and the impact we have on the world. The special guest, Mike Acker, shares his compelling life story, beginning with his unconventional childhood as the son of a drug smuggler father and a witch mother, and how he became a pastor. Mike's narrative takes listeners through his turbulent and extraordinary path, including his family's radical transformation after embracing Christianity, his struggles and adventures growing up in Mexico, and his eventual calling to ministry. After years in pastoral work, Mike faced burnout and transitioned to a successful career in sales, ultimately finding a mission to lead and inspire others, culminating in his work with a Christian poverty relief organization. The episode emphasizes the importance of living on mission, understanding one's purpose, and making impactful choices, offering insights into how personal context and faith can lead to fulfilling one's potential. Episode Highlights: 00:54 Introducing Mike Acker: A Story of Transformation 03:45 Mike Acker's Unbelievable Journey: From Drug Smuggling Roots to Pastoral Mission 10:19 Embracing a New Path: Mike's Shift from Mexico to Ministry 15:03 Navigating Career and Identity Shifts: From Ministry to Sales 18:57 Living on Mission: Crafting a Personal Mission Statement 26:57 Embracing Life with Clarity and Purpose 27:43 The Power of a Personal Mission Statement 29:55 The Transformative Impact of Having a Mission 35:35 Addressing the Challenges of Identifying a Life Mission 38:47 Simplifying the Journey: Steps to Discovering Your Mission 47:36 Closing Thoughts: Taking the First Step Towards Your Mission Connect with Mike: https://www.mikeacker.com/ https://www.instagram.com/mikeackerdotcom https://www.youtube.com/c/ADVANCEwithMikeAcker Connect with Tommy: https://tommythompson.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommy-thompson-teacher/ https://twitter.com/tommypthompson https://www.instagram.com/author_tommythompson/