I grew up in Spokane, went to Notre Dame, and somehow ended up raising five native Texans in Austin. That is a pretty good summary of how little of my life has gone according to plan, and how faithful God has been through all of it.
Current work
Today, I lead the Greater Austin Mission Society, where I help churches, ministries, nonprofits, and leaders understand our city, build relationships of trust, and strengthen the work God is already doing across Greater Austin.
Through Engstrom Ventures, I also coach and advise leaders, consult with organizations working through growth or transition, and occasionally invest in work I believe will serve people well.
The work that shaped me
For more than two decades, I served in a variety of roles at The Austin Stone Community Church, most recently as Executive Pastor of Ministry Strategies. That work gave me a deep love for the local church and years of experience in discipleship, organizational leadership, church planting, leader development, and mission.
Family
Olivia and I have three sons, Micah, Hudson, and Owen, and two daughters, Emmaline and Lucy. Austin has been home for most of our adult lives, and our family remains rooted here and in the local church.
Life with a large family has taught me plenty about grace, endurance, leadership, and how little control I actually have.
Faith, writing, and life in Austin
I care deeply about Jesus, discipleship, the local church, organizational leadership, church planting, and the patient work of helping people and institutions grow healthier. I also follow Austin FC, watch Notre Dame football, and enjoy a good conversation about what faithfulness might look like in a changing city.
I have been writing here for more than fifteen years, so the archive includes old convictions, unfinished ideas, and more than a few things I would say differently now. I have kept it because it tells the truth about a life of learning.
Keep reading or get in touch
If you’re new here, start with a few selected essays, or explore the longer writing and practical resources. If something prompts a conversation, I’d be glad to hear from you.