CCC 28-2_LR

LEAD ARTICLES

Dr. Zach Clinton Host of the Built Different Podcast & Vice President of the American Association of Christian Counselors

Dustin Riverbark Nationally Recognized Speaker & Coach

Ben Allison CEO of the American Association of Christian Counselors

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At the heart of the Academy is the understanding that many aspiring speakers do not struggle with the passion or heart behind their message, but with having a clear direction for where to begin. A message God has placed on someone’s heart can easily feel scattered without a framework to sup port it, and even gifted communicators may feel unsure how to shape their story in a way that genuinely serves others and has the potential to grow into a meaningful part-time or full-time calling. The Built Different Speakers Academy addresses this gap by helping speakers clarify the heart of their message, identify the audiences they are called to serve, and communicate with intention rather than uncertainty. The Academy is led by speaker coach and nationally recognized commu nicator, Dustin Rivenbark, with teaching from AACC Vice President, Dr. Zach Clinton, and AACC Chief Executive Officer, Ben Allison. Together, they bring experience from Christian leadership, counseling, ministry, business, and professional speaking, shaping a program that is both faith-centered and grounded in real-world application. Their shared perspective reflects a con viction that effective speaking begins with faithfulness, intentional prepara tion, and a clear sense of calling. A central focus of the Built Different Speakers Academy is helping aspiring speakers develop the confidence, content, and presence to engage any audi ence. The program emphasizes crafting messages that are clear, engaging, and biblically grounded, while also teaching how to integrate personal story, teaching, and practical application in a way that feels natural and authentic. Rather than relying on inspiration alone, the Academy introduces structured approaches that help messages become easier to follow, remember, and apply. The Academy also addresses the realities of speaking in diverse environ ments. Whether communication occurs in churches, schools, conferences, nonprofit settings, or on virtual platforms, effective delivery requires dis cernment and adaptability. Training within the Academy emphasizes the importance of audience engagement, presence, and clarity across various settings, enabling speakers to communicate with confidence while remain ing true to who God has called them to be. Beyond the moment on stage, the Built Different Speakers Academy acknowledges that many speakers feel unprepared for the broader responsi bilities that come with a speaking platform. The program includes guidance

on professional presentation, out reach, and long-term sustainability, offering insight into how speaking opportunities often unfold over time. This practical focus supports speakers who desire their message to continue serving others long after a single event. The Academy is offered in two formats. A Course Only option provides lifetime access to all train ing materials and downloadable resources, allowing participants to move through the content at their own pace. Additionally, a Course Plus Coaching option includes monthly group coaching with Dustin Rivenbark, real-time feed back, accountability, and access to a private community that prioritizes growth, humility, and stewardship. The Built Different Speakers Academy exists for those who believe God has entrusted them with a mes sage and want to steward it well. It offers a practical starting point for individuals ready to move from story to stage, providing the structure and guidance needed to communicate with confidence, purpose, and integ rity. To learn more about the Built Different Speakers Academy, please visit: https://builtdifferentacademy. com/speakers/. ;

6 Christian Counseling Connection