On The Mic with Sam Sylk

Sam Sylk sits down with Dr. R.A. Vernon of The Word Church to talk about his journey from Cleveland’s projects to pastoring thousands. Vernon shares his first sermon, the heartbreak of being locked out of his first church, and how that setback led to launching The Word Church in 2000 with almost nothing. He explains what purpose looks like, challenges misconceptions about pastors and money, and describes the emotional weight pastors carry. Tune in for the rest and as always, Like, Subscribe and Share!

00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro
00:45 Young Grandparents Talk
01:53 Projects to Purpose
04:38 Called to Preach Early
06:34 First Sermon Memories
08:23 First Pastorate Joy
11:07 Finding Your Purpose
12:57 Pastor Pay Misconceptions
15:15 Locked Out and New Church
19:33 Giving Back and Transparency
24:16 Handling People’s Burdens
24:49 Vacation Like a Boss
26:02 Outreach and Justice
28:07 Prophetic Preaching Balance
30:54 Mixed Congregation Real Talk
31:33 Hardest Pastor Decisions
35:11 Legacy and Kids
36:25 Church and Mental Health
38:13 Fathers and Sons Healing
42:27 Breaking Family Patterns
43:58 Generational Wealth Blueprint
47:08 Final Thanks and Wrap

Creators and Guests

Host
Sam Sylk
Radio Legend, Entrepreneur and Restaurateur Sam Sylk Presents On The Mic, an extension of his already vast media reach to bring a different type of conversation than we usually get from him through other outlets.

What is On The Mic with Sam Sylk?

On the Mic with Sam Sylk is where real conversations happen.

After more than 30 years as one of radio’s most trusted voices, Sam Sylk brings listeners candid, engaging interviews with comedians, entrepreneurs, influencers, athletes, community leaders, and legendary R&B artists.

This is Sam in his rawest form—authentic, insightful, and unfiltered. Every episode delivers inspiring stories, behind-the-scenes moments, business insights, laughs, life lessons, and conversations that matter.

If you love great storytelling, powerful interviews, and genuine conversations with today’s biggest names and everyday difference-makers, pull up a chair and get On the Mic with Sam Sylk.

“Real Conversations. Real People. Real Stories.”