Child of God. Husband/Father/Grandfather. Servant.

Jim McGuire, a retired technology executive, now dedicates his life to equipping the next generation of Christian leaders. As the founder of thryve Leaders, Jim empowers individuals to launch and sustain impactful ministries. He also serves on the Elder board at Highlands Church. Married to his high school sweetheart, Pam, for 50 years, Jim cherishes their two children and four grandchildren. His passion for servant leadership and his legacy of faith continue to inspire those he mentors and serves.

Pastor. Founder. Facilitator.

Rick Linamen is a seasoned pastor dedicated to equipping leaders to fulfill their God-given calling. With over 40 years of ministry experience, Rick has fostered Kingdom momentum by building healthy leaders, churches, and ministries. He served as Executive Pastor for 25 years at churches like Scottsdale Bible Church, The Rock Church San Diego, Venture Christian Church, and Cornerstone Church in Chandler, AZ. Currently, Rick is the president of Unleash God’s Dream and part of the launch team for thryve Leaders, which equips pastors with practical tools for healthy, multiplying ministries. Married to Kathy for 46 years, they share three children and nine grandchildren.  

Founder. President. StrongFamilies  

John Trent wakes up every day with a passion for helping people build stronger families, friendships, and faith. As a counselor, educator, and coach, John draws from decades of experience to inspire others. He co-authored the award-winning book The Blessing with Gary Smalley and has since authored over 30 books, reaching readers across the globe. Through writing, speaking, and training, John continues to create a culture of blessing in homes, workplaces, and ministries. His mission is simple: to equip others to strengthen relationships and live with purpose.  

Shepherd | Speaker | Encourager  

Diana Mescher delights in encouraging others to experience Jesus more deeply. An Iowa native with a Master of Divinity, Diana has spent over a decade leading in church ministry and equipping leaders worldwide. Known for her wisdom and relatability, she’s a regular teacher on The Daily Devo, a women’s Bible study leader, and a retreat speaker. Whether hiking in Phoenix, savoring coffee, or sharing adventures with her nieces and nephews, Diana embodies joy and faith. Above all, she seeks to walk authentically with Jesus, guiding audiences of all ages toward hope and a deeper understanding of God’s heart. 

Pastor. Educator. Equipper.  

With a passion for equipping and discipleship, Ed Lutz serves as a pastor at Highlands Church. Holding a Master’s in Secondary Education from Arizona State University and a Doctor of Ministry from Phoenix Seminary, Ed’s career spans 16 years in education and 23 years in pastoral ministry. His heart for teaching has shaped his leadership, inspiring countless individuals in their faith journey. Ed and his wife, Susie, live in Phoenix, Arizona. They are blessed with three adult children and six grandchildren, cherishing time spent with their growing family. 

Pastor. Teacher. Counselor.  

Bob Wade brings 46 years of full-time ministry experience, marked by faithful service and Spirit-led transitions. His journey includes work with Youth for Christ, student ministries, singles, and family ministry, eventually leading him to become a lead pastor. After five years, Bob followed God’s call into marriage ministry in Scottsdale, Arizona. A lifelong learner, Bob studied at Point Loma College, Fresno Pacific, and Phoenix Seminary, among others. Married to Gayla for 41 years, they have three children and five grandchildren. Bob’s heart remains steadfast in shepherding individuals and families toward Christ-centered relationships and spiritual growth. 

Author. Speaker. Coach.  

Kari Trent Stageberg is an author, speaker, and certified Master Coach dedicated to helping people experience redemption and love through a relationship with Jesus. As CEO of StrongFamilies, a ministry she leads alongside her father, Dr. John Trent, Kari equips families with resources to live out The Blessing. Her story of healing from domestic violence has inspired millions, and she’s spoken to audiences worldwide, including over a million viewers on Iran Alive Broadcasts. Married to her husband, Joey, Kari is a proud mom to their two young sons, finding her greatest joy in faith and family. 

Coach.  Creator.  Servant.  Disciple.

After more than 40 years as a technology executive, Marv is now passionate about helping others discover and live out their life calling, and walking alongside them to help them maximize their impact for God’s Kingdom.  Marv is the Director of Men’s Discipleship at theCHURCH in Lakeside, Arizona, and also serves as a faculty member and curriculum developer for theCHURCH's Discipleship Training Academy.  He also works alongside Rick Linamen as a Director and the CFO/COO for Unleash God’s Dream.  Marv has three adult children, one grandson and a granddaughter on the way.

Alicia Files, an accomplished ministry professional with over a decade of experience in leading alongside top-level leadership at national organizations, denominations, and non-profits. She is a true ministry event expert, with significant experience in logistics, planning, team strategy, and brand management. As co-founder of redi, a ministry consulting and events company, she has a deep understanding of what it takes to create impactful experiences that drive growth and engagement through excellent teams and collaboration.