Joby Martin
Pastor and AuthorJoby Martin is the vibrant founder and lead pastor of The Church of Eleven22, a thriving multi-campus ministry based in Jacksonville, Florida. Since its launch in 2012, Pastor Joby’s bold vision and authentic preaching have propelled Eleven22 into one of America’s fastest-growing churches, with 14 campuses across Northeast Florida and South Georgia, attracting nearly 15,000 weekly attendees. His relatable, uncompromising approach to biblical truth has made Eleven22 a movement for people to encounter and deepen their faith in Jesus Christ. As a sought-after speaker, Joby inspires men worldwide to embrace authentic, biblical manhood in today’s complex cultural landscape.
Joby has co-authored several transformative books with New York Times bestselling author Charles Martin:
- If the Tomb Is Empty: Why the Resurrection Means Anything Is Possible
- Anything Is Possible: How Nine Miracles of Jesus Reveal God’s Love for You
- Run Over By the Grace Train: How the Unstoppable Love of God Transforms Everything
- Stand Firm and Act Like Men (with contributions from Charles Martin)
In their latest, Stand Firm and Act Like Men, Joby, with insights from Charles Martin, tackles the crisis of masculinity, offering a biblically grounded guide for men to lead with integrity, serve their families, and stand firm in faith. His writing blends humor, storytelling, and spiritual depth, making complex truths accessible and actionable.
Through platforms like X, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, Joby connects with a global audience… with his content sparking high engagement and reflecting his gift for authentic communication.
From an unconventional path—marked by nominal Christianity and youthful rebellion—Joby found faith at a Southern Baptist summer camp. His love for hunting, the outdoors, and Georgia Bulldogs football infuses his raw, relatable storytelling. Married to Gretchen for over 20 years, Joby is a devoted husband and father to their son, JP, and daughter, Reagan Capri.
We’re thrilled to have Joby speak at the 1613 Men’s Conference, where he’ll deliver a powerful mix of biblical wisdom, practical tools, and a bold call to live as men of faith. Explore his ministry at jobymartin.com or coe22.com.
Pastor HB Charles, JR
Pastor and Author
MICHAEL WADDELL
THE MAN FROM BOOGER BOTTOMMichael Waddell's story began in the backwoods of Booger Bottom, Georgia — no crowds, no concrete jungles, just plenty of room for a boy to get dirty, get into a little trouble, and grow up country. Southern by birth and redneck by the grace of God, Michael is a guitar-pickin', blue-jeans-wearin' good ol' boy who was born to hunt. If it gobbles, quacks, bugles or grunts, chances are he's chased it more than a time or two.
Michael got his start in the hunting industry by winning a Realtree turkey calling contest, then went on to guide, film, and run camera for Realtree all over God's creation. That road led to the hit show Realtree Road Trips, and life has been a whirlwind of huntin', travelin', and meeting great folks from coast to coast ever since.
Through it all, Michael never forgets how blessed he is — with a loving family, a job he loves, loyal fans, and a country where he's free to be the rowdy redneck he was born to be.
Nick Freitas
Making the ArgumentNick Freitas is a committed Christian, husband, father, former Green Beret, and influential conservative voice. He served as a Virginia House of Delegates member from 2016 through 2025 – when he announced he would not seek re-election, transitioning to focus on his role as a conservative commentator. Born in Chico, California, on August 29, 1979, he served in the U.S. Army with the 82nd Airborne and 25th Light Infantry Divisions before becoming a Special Forces (Green Beret) Weapons and Intelligence Sergeant, completing two combat tours in Iraq and earning an honorable discharge in 2009.
Nick and his wife, Tina (his high school sweetheart), homeschooled their three children—Lillyana, Luke, and Alexandria. Their homeschooling journey, initially a more practical necessity due to Nick’s military service, became a commitment to fostering independent thinking and strong values. As an advocate for education freedom, Nick emphasizes parental choice and raising principled citizens.
Nick champions individual liberty, personal responsibility, and limited government. A dynamic communicator, Nick hosts Making the Argument with Nick Freitas, a podcast diving into political philosophy, current issues, and his military and legislative experiences. His YouTube channel, under his name, has over 1.2 million subscribers, with millions of views on his viral speeches and content promoting conservative principles, free markets, and cultural topics like the importance family and masculinity. His social media following exceeds 3.3 million, averaging 2 million daily views, resonating with audiences seeking a trusted and principled voice of common sense, clarity and conviction. He is a frequent guest on Fox News, OAN, and podcasts like Shawn Ryan Show and TimCast.
Freitas is a prominent media figure, hosting The Why Minutes YouTube channel and Making the Argument podcast, where he discusses politics, free-market economics, culture, and masculinity, amassing over 3.3 million social media followers and 2 million daily views. He is a frequent guest on Fox News, OAN, and podcasts like Shawn Ryan Show and TimCast. In 2025, Freitas announced he would not seek re-election, transitioning to focus on his role as a conservative influencer.
John Lovell
Warrior Poet SocietyJohn Lovell, born in Texas, is a combat veteran, pastor, bestselling author, and founder of the Warrior Poet Society, a values-based community dedicated to physical protection, the pursuit of truth, and living for a higher purpose. A former U.S. Army Ranger, former Christian missionary to Central America, and influential content creator, Lovell’s message of balanced masculinity, rooted in faith and strength, has garnered over 100 million views across YouTube, social media, and the Warrior Poet Society Network streaming platform.
Lovell’s journey began in the military, where he served as a Special Operations soldier in the 2nd Ranger Battalion, completing multiple combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. After his service, he spent four years as a full-time Christian missionary in Central America, sharing the gospel and deepening his faith. A devout Protestant, Lovell now pastors at Grace City Church in Rome, Georgia, where he preaches unapologetically, urging believers to live out their faith with courage and unity.
Settling on a small farm in Georgia with his wife, Rebekah, and their two sons, Lovell embodies the family-man ethos he champions. His commitment to fatherhood is central to his life, as he strives to raise his sons to be strong, bold, and faithful men in a “dangerous world filled with lies.” He views fatherhood as a sacred duty, balancing love and protection, and stresses the importance of family over career, advising young men to “grind early” but prioritize faith and relationships.
As a public speaker, firearms trainer, and homesteader, Lovell founded the Warrior Poet Society to train individuals in self-defense and foster a mindset of courage and integrity. His book, The Warrior Poet Way: A Guide to Living Free and Dying Well became an instant Wall Street Journal Bestseller, and outlines his philosophy of balancing the “lion and lamb”—being both a fierce protector and a compassionate lover. Lovell’s YouTube channel, The John Lovell Show, and podcast offer commentary on current events, practical self-defense tips, and discussions on masculinity, addressing issues like the disenfranchisement of young men and the need for mentorship. His framework for masculinity rests on three pillars—belonging, skill, and fearlessness—warning against “cheap substitutes” like obsession with sports or video games. With over 3 million social media followers, his content, laced with humor and “lame dad jokes,” resonates widely, particularly among men seeking purpose in an “age of tolerance” that he believes often sacrifices integrity for niceness.
Lovell’s outspokenness on issues like censorship and cultural decline reflects his belief in an ongoing “ideological war.” He critiques media narratives and encourages men to reject passivity in favor of bold, faith-driven action. We’re honored to welcome John to the 1613 Conference as he encourages men in the areas of faith, family, and resilience. Living with his family in Georgia, Lovell continues to inspire through his multifaceted life as a warrior, poet, pastor, and protector.
Bradley Geary
Retired U.S. Navy SEAL CaptainBradley Geary is a devoted follower of Jesus Christ, a retired U.S. Navy SEAL Captain and award-winning leader whose 25-year career in Naval Special Warfare forged his conviction that ethics-based leadership is the foundation for enduring success—for individuals, teams, and organizations alike.
A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and the Naval Postgraduate School, Brad commanded tactical units at numerous SEAL Teams, including the nation’s premier Naval counterterrorism unit. As a C-suite leader, he led as Commanding Officer twice: at SEAL Delivery Vehicle Team ONE, the Navy’s elite undersea component, and at NSW Basic Training Command, the force generation training pipeline for all Navy maritime commandos.
His leadership journey has taken him across nearly every continent—guiding high-performing teams in some of the world’s most complex and high-stakes environments. Beyond that, through successful exploits in the Joint and Interagency environments, he has proven that sound leadership principles transcend industry when applied to unique organizational cultures.
In recognition of his leadership, Bradley was acknowledged with the Vice Admiral James B. Stockdale Award for Inspirational Leadership, the U.S. Navy’s most prestigious leadership honor, and was also named the Naval Special Warfare recipient of the USO Metro Salute to USSOCOM Award.
As a speaker and thought leader, Bradley draws on his experiences leading in combat, transforming organizations, and mentoring future generations of warriors. His message centers on the power of principles, people, and culture—and how leaders can cultivate resilience, trust, and moral clarity in the face of adversity.
Bradley’s insights on faith, ethics, and leadership have been featured on The Shawn Ryan Show, The Resilient Show, and other major platforms. He is under contract with Ballast Books LLC to publish a memoir on faith, leadership, and suffering, titled: “Hard Mind, Soft Heart: A Warfighter’s Battle for Truth, Brotherhood, and the Soul of the SEAL Teams.” As a professional speaker, leadership consultant, and author, he and his family continue their shared mission of service, integrity, and impact
We can't wait for Bradley to bring his battle-tested wisdom to the 1613 stage—equipping men to rise, lead boldly, and live out God's design with courage and conviction! Those that are attending IN-PERSON in Cincinnati may also want to connect with him personally during his time in the Exhibit Hall... along with our other Speakers.
Rich Franklin
UFC Hall of Famer | Multiple-time MMA World ChampionA high school math teacher turned multiple-time MMA World Champion, UFC Hall of Famer and former Vice President of ONE Championship -- Asia’s largest martial arts promotion -- Franklin is widely recognized as a pioneer who advanced the sport globally. In his illustrious 13-year career in the octagon, Franklin became the first man in UFC history to fight in four different countries. He headlined the organization’s first ever live hit network cable show The Ultimate Fighter, and also captured the middleweight World Championship in 2005. But the anchor of his life has never been a championship belt or a fight record. It has been his faith in Jesus Christ.
Growing up poor in the Midwest on food subsidies, Franklin developed a blue-collar grit and strove to better his circumstances. Though not the most naturally gifted athlete, few could match Franklin’s tireless work ethic and devotion to health and nutrition. He excelled in martial arts and in 2002, left his pension and stable career as an educator behind to pursue his dreams of becoming a professional fighter. Mixed martial arts became the crucible which stoked his competitive fire, sense of duty and faith. Franklin attributes his many accomplishments in life to the discipline and character forged from this very fire.
In 2005, Rich captured the UFC Middleweight Championship. Over a decorated 13-year career he compiled a record of 29–7, defeating legends including Ken Shamrock, Chuck Liddell, and Wanderlei Silva. He headlined the UFC's first-ever live network cable event and helped pioneer the global growth of mixed martial arts. In 2019, he was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame.
But ask Rich Franklin what he wants to be remembered for and the answer isn't titles or victories. He's said he cares less about accomplishments than about being remembered for "work ethic, the heart that you have in a fight, the passion that I had for this sport and the sacrifices that I made so that I could pursue something great."
Franklin has also written:
Nothing has impacted my life more than the presence of God. A strong undercurrent of his faith runs through my being and His Word has been both refuge and strength. Among the many bible scriptures, Psalm 144:1 is especially dear to me. As a professional mixed martial artist, it certainly struck a chord but spiritually this verse resonated even deeper.
Blessed be the Lord my strength,
which teacheth my hands for war, and my fingers for battle.
Psalm 144, A Psalm of David talks about prayer and worship regarding the seasons of war and peace. As a warring king, David fought to keep the kingdom of Israel safe from enemies. By the grace and power of God, David was victorious in his many battles. David knew it was the courage and strength that God had imbued in him which allowed him to subdue his foes. Just as he stood bravely across from Goliath, David placed his faith in God. It was the Lord who guided his hand that released the stone which felled the giant.
In life, we are faced with many trials and tribulations, big and small which the Lord will test us with. I seek to emulate David’s warrior spirit as I confront my battles in life. Yet I recognize that even as a king, David sought God’s help and instruction. It is a tacit acknowledgement that my worth and being is only possible with God. That I am the vessel upon which He will use to get victory and the credit should belong to Him.
Whenever I entered the cage alone to face my opponent, I knew I was never alone. God was watching over me and guiding me. All the times I called upon Him for strength, He led me to victory. I believe that God had set me on this path and watched over me since. Otherwise, it’s really hard to explain how a waifish third stringer on the high school football team like myself could end up being a World Champion in combat sports.
Outside the cage, whether it’s in school, the weight room or at work, life is very much a fight. Each of us face the same eternal struggle – our race against time.
Every opportunity to fight and prevail in our battles is a chance to honor God.
I have fully embraced the Lord’s presence in my life and therefore in my battles, there is reasonable expectation that I will do them justice.
Vitor Belfort
UFC Hall of Famer | former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion | "The Phenom"Vitor Belfort is a UFC Hall of Famer, former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion, and one of the most accomplished athletes in mixed martial arts history. Known around the world as "The Phenom," Vitor has spent decades competing at the highest level, earning victories over some of the sport's greatest champions and cementing his legacy as one of the sport's all-time greats.
Beyond his accomplishments inside the Octagon, Vitor is a devoted husband, proud father, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. His faith has become the foundation of his life, shaping the way he leads his family, serves others, and approaches every opportunity. Together with his wife, Joana, Vitor is committed to raising their children with strong Christian values and encouraging families to build their lives on faith, love, and purpose.
Today, Vitor travels the world sharing a message of hope, perseverance, and the transformative power of God's grace. Whether speaking about overcoming adversity, discovering true identity in Christ, or leading with integrity at home and in the marketplace, Vitor inspires audiences to pursue a life centered on faith, family, and God's calling.
Matt Hughes
UFC Hall of Famer | former two-time UFC Welterweight Champion | NJCAA and NWHOF Hall of Fame inducteeMatt Hughes is a retired American mixed martial artist and collegiate wrestler. Widely considered among the greatest fighters in the history of MMA, Hughes is a former two-time UFC Welterweight Champion, UFC Hall of Fame inductee, NJCAA and NWHOF Hall of Fame inductee.
Raised on a farm in rural Illinois, where hard work wasn’t optional, it was a way of life, Hughes learned discipline and grit from an early age. The daily demands of farm life instilled in him a tireless work ethic and physical toughness that would later define his fighting style.
Hughes began wrestling in junior high and quickly excelled, going on to dominate at Hillsboro High School undefeated both junior and senior seasons.
Breaking into MMA in 1998, Hughes was known for his dominating wrestling and suffocating ground-and-pound, earning nicknames like "the Gracie Killer" after submitting several Brazilian jiu-jitsu legends. After joining the UFC in 1999, Hughes put together two separate six-fight winning streaks, defeated all the available opposition in the welterweight division, and defended the belt a then-record seven times. During his reign, Hughes was considered the #1 pound-for-pound mixed martial artist in the world.
Hughes announced his retirement from fighting in 2013 and was named Vice President of Athlete Development and Government Relations for the UFC. Hughes went on to write an autobiography, became a host on many TV shows, including Texas Trophy Hunters, Uncaged with Matt Hughes, and The Takedown with Matt Hughes.
On June 16, 2017, Hughes was involved in a horrendous accident where the truck he was driving was struck by a train. As a result of this collision, he suffered a very serious brain injury; stage 3 diffuse axonal brain injury.
Hughes was helping a local farmer deliver diesel fuel to a nearby farm and crossed a set of railroad tracks on a narrow country road. He did not see or hear the approaching train due to the absence of railroad crossing gates, railroad lights, or a train whistle.
After spending several weeks in a coma, it was unlikely that Hughes would ever wake up. If he did regain consciousness, due to the amount of brain damage, he was expected to suffer from a serious condition known as “locked-in syndrome”.
Medical experts gave their predictions, but God had other plans. Not only did Hughes regain consciousness, but he re-learned how to walk, speak, and live with independence.
In retirement, Hughes has found joy in staying active and engaged each day. He works for a local township, volunteers for his church, goes to the gym every day, and advocates for those with brain injuries and/or other neurological conditions. Hughes stays connected to his old sport by doing appearances for the UFC and teaching MMA seminars. Hughes also attends therapy once a week to continue treating his TBI.
In 2024, Hughes founded the Matt Hughes Project: A non-profit that provides support to brain injury survivors who have served in our nation's military.
As you may hear Hughes say often, "Any day the dirt runs down the drain in my shower is a good day, and proof that I showed up for life today."
Hughes’ present days are full, purposeful, and rewarding.
Joel Salatin
America’s Lunatic FarmerJoel F. Salatin, born February 24, 1957, in Anderson, Indiana, is a third-generation farmer, lecturer, and author whose revolutionary practices at Polyface Farm in Swoope, Virginia, have made him a global leader in regenerative agriculture. Self-described as a “Christian libertarian environmentalist capitalist lunatic farmer,” Salatin’s innovative methods, blending faith, ecological stewardship, and contrarian principles, have earned him recognition as TIME magazine’s “world’s most innovative farmer” and Virginia’s “most eclectic thinker since Thomas Jefferson.” His influence spans books, films, and high-profile media appearances, inspiring a movement toward sustainable, local food systems.
Raised in a family committed to biblical stewardship, Salatin’s early life shaped his rejection of industrial agriculture. His father, William, purchased a 1,000-acre farm in Venezuela, where Joel spent his early childhood until a 1959 revolution forced relocation. In 1961, the family settled in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, purchasing a 550-acre, eroded farm that became Polyface. Influenced by J.I. Rodale’s organic principles, Salatin’s parents avoided chemical farming. After earning a B.A. in English from Bob Jones University in 1979 and working briefly as a journalist, Salatin returned to Polyface in 1982 to farm full-time with his wife, Teresa, whom he married in 1980. They have two children, Daniel and Rachel, and four generations of Salatins now work the farm.
At Polyface, Salatin pioneered rotational grazing, pastured poultry, and grass-fed beef, managing 72 hectares of pasture and 190 hectares of woodland, plus 404 leased hectares. His “salad bar beef” and “pigaerator pork” rely on daily livestock rotation to mimic natural cycles, restoring soil without chemicals or vaccines. The farm serves over 5,000 families, 50 restaurants, and 10 retail outlets, generating $1.83 million annually. Salatin’s transparency—open farm tours and no trade secrets—builds consumer trust.
A devout Christian, Salatin views farming as a sacred act of stewarding God’s creation, guided by 1 Corinthians 4:2. His faith fuels his rejection of subsidies and organic certification, favoring decentralized food systems. He has authored 14 books, including You Can Farm and Folks, This Ain’t Normal, and edits The Stockman Grass Farmer.
Salatin’s media presence is extensive, with appearances that include The Joe Rogan Experience in 2014 (#479), 2020 (#1478), and The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast (#539). Salatin also starred in the 2011 documentary American Meat, and in the 2025 project from Angel Studios, The Lunatic Farmer. His Beyond Labels podcast and YouTube presence further his influence, inspiring farmers and homesteaders globally.
Salatin’s debt-free farm and mentorship of apprentices prove his model’s success. Joel continues to champion small farms, and… living with Teresa on Polyface… he continues to lecture, write, and speak - including at the 1613 Men’s Conference.
Mike Dragich
U.S. Marine Corps veteran | professional alligator trapper| founder of Project Savior OutdoorsMike Dragich is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, professional alligator trapper and founder of Project Savior Outdoors, a nonprofit dedicated to suicide prevention and crisis response for veterans and first responders.
The “Blue Collar Brawler” is known by millions for wrestling massive alligators but his true mission is saving lives and sharing the freedom that comes through Jesus Christ and the outdoors.
Before enlisting in the Marine Corps, Mike was shot point blank in a violent street incident and shouldn’t be alive. Today, he combines his adrenaline packed life experience with the truth of God’s Word to deliver a powerful message on spiritual warfare, power of testimony and the life-changing power of the Gospel.
Mike is also the owner of Brawler Creek Ranch, where he hosts men’s retreats and father-son rite-of-passage hunting camps designed to equip young leaders, strengthen families and build lasting faith.
He is a devoted husband and father of 4, a member of The Church of Eleven22 in Jacksonville, FL and is being mentored by Pastor Joby Martin. Mike speaks with the same intensity that made him a Marine, a fighter and a man who walks fearlessly into the swamps of life.
David Gibbs, 1613 emcee
National Center for Life and LibertyDavid C. Gibbs III serves as president and general counsel of the National Center for Life and Liberty (NCLL), a legal ministry that protects the rights of churches and Christian organizations nationwide, with offices in California, Florida, North Carolina, and Texas.
A graduate of Duke University School of Law, Mr. Gibbs speaks regularly at churches and conferences across the country, while also litigating cases as a trial attorney. He has authored six books, including Fighting for Dear Life, Understanding the Constitution, and How to Find the Right Pastor.
Mr. Gibbs manages the Gibbs Law Firm and has argued before the United States Supreme Court and numerous federal circuit and district courts nationwide. He has also been admitted to the state bars of Florida, Minnesota, Colorado, North Dakota, Ohio, Texas, Tennessee, Michigan, and the District of Columbia. He was the lead attorney in the Terri Schiavo case, representing her parents as they fought to save their daughter’s life. This case went before the US Supreme Court twice in ten days. Mr. Gibbs is a frequent spokesperson on radio and television, having appeared on many major news and talk programs.
Mr. Gibbs’s personal mantra is: “If it’s wrong, fight it. If it’s right, fight for it.” His favorite verse is Matthew 25:40, where Jesus said, “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these, my brethren, ye have done it unto me.”
JASON CRABB
Musical Guest and Worship LeaderIn his career, Kentucky-born Jason Crabb has been honored with 2 GRAMMY awards and over 20 GMA Dove Awards – being named the Gospel Music Association Dove Awards Artist and Male Vocalist of the Year along with Song of the Year – along with a host of industry honors and recognitions, with chart-topping hits that inspire the multitudes. Among his honors, he is the youngest member to be inducted into the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame, and his hometown of Beaver Dam, KY recognized him by naming a street as Jason Crabb Drive.
Crabb’s electrifying stage presence, powerhouse vocals and magnetic personality have endeared him to millions across the world – through extensive personal appearances, media coverage, and social media including over 20 million views on YouTube.
Since his first solo release in 2009, Jason Crabb has performed at many of the world’s most prestigious stages such as Carnegie Hall, Grand Ole Opry, The Ryman, Red Rocks Amphitheater, Brooklyn Tabernacle and Billy Graham’s final crusade in NYC. He has also shared the stage with artists such as Gloria Gaynor, Kari Jobe, Vince Gill, Mary Mary’s Erica Campbell, Donnie McClurkin, Wynonna, Brad Paisley, Blake Shelton, Michael W. Smith, Jamie Grace, Sandi Patty, the Oak Ridge Boys and more. He has appeared on NBC’s “Celebrity Apprentice” and alongside Duck Dynasty’s Willie Robertson.
Crabb has been featured and covered by many media outlets as well – including: People Magazine, Fox News, Country Living, The Huffington Post, Billboard, USA Today, Entertainment Tonight, and Country Weekly, among others, and was named one of Nashville’s Most Beautiful People by Nashville Lifestyles Magazine. Jason Crabb is also frequently seen on television hosting on TBN, appearing on awards shows and television specials for a variety of networks. He has done musical collaborations with many talented artists such as Jay DeMarcus and Gary LeVox with Rascal Flatts, Vince Gill, Trace Adkins, Scotty McCreery, Dylan Scott, Zach Williams, and Allan Jackson.
Jason’s garnered accolades and long list of accomplishments are remarkable, and his talent is unmatched! But aside from all this, what sets Jason Crabb apart the most is his genuine love for God and his heart for ministering to people. He’s incredibly passionate about every song he sings and every opportunity to share his heart. From the moment Jason takes the stage, he will usher in God’s presence, providing his audience with a life-changing experience.
