Shifting Gears: Founder Of Motocross Ministry Keeps The Faith As City’s New Chaplain

Brad has come a long way from his childhood in Springfield, MO, where he was a young man trying to find his path. Long before dazzling audiences on America’s Got Talent with his motocross stunts, his journey to know Christ was focused more on understanding faith than flipping backward on a bike.

“Even though I did not have much knowledge about spiritual things growing up, I always believed there was a God. I understood that Jesus was God’s son and why we celebrate Christmas and Easter, but I never understood what it had to do with me.”

He’d gain that understanding not long after he graduated high school. An avid motocross racer in his teenage years, Brad was eager to continue his journey into adulthood. That’s when he met Steve Wise, a fellow rider who would help guide him and encourage his growth in faith.

“We were at his house and he was giving his testimony to me and other riders. As Steve shared his journey, he was sharing the gospel. I really believed the Lord was speaking to me through Steve’s story.”

“He asked me a question I’d never been asked before. ‘If you died tonight, where would you spend eternity?’”

Brad initially believed that going to heaven was about being a good person. However, Steve shared that salvation is a gift of grace through faith in Jesus Christ. Brad realized he hadn't fully surrendered his life to Christ. That night, he asked for forgiveness and invited Jesus into his life.

Five minutes later, Brad shared his testimony with friends inside that house and later told his parents.

Over the past 35 years, he’s been sharing his testimony with others. Although he continued racing for a few years, he stepped away from it around age 24. He met his wife, and at 27, he felt called to full-time ministry, eventually becoming a youth pastor for four years.

In 2000, Brad founded the Real Encounter stunt show ministry to creatively share the gospel with kids. Partnering with churches nationwide, he brought the thrilling spectacle to audiences of all ages. Despite suffering eight broken bones, three knee surgeries, and two nose surgeries, Brad believes the risk was worth it, as over 50,000 people have come to know Christ through the ministry.

After so many years of high-octane outreach, Brad’s found a certain peace with a slower pace. He’s worked on staff at four different churches, including Second Baptist in Springfield and the past six years at the Missouri Baptist Convention.

When Brad heard about the Chaplain opening at Silver Dollar City, he felt a strong pull toward the position. Having grown up visiting the park, he admired the genuine people who worked there. He saw the ministry as a blank canvas and was excited to help shape it. His main priority as he gets ready to welcome back Citizens in a few weeks, is to love on them through difficult times.

“I can’t wait to encourage and come along our hosts when they are in a tough spot. In my short time here already, I’ve been able to be with them when they lost a loved one or were in the hospital. It’s an honor to be there for folks like that.”

Brad has big theme park plans, including beginning weekly Bible studies for hosts. He’s also excited to lead Sunday services at The City’s Wilderness Church, one for employees and one for guests.

It’s a new chapter for Brad, but it’s one that honors the same values that have guided his ministry for years: trust, balance, and the belief that God’s got your back—even when the road gets bumpy.

“There’s something special about the pace here,” Brad says with a smile. “It’s not just about the thrill of the ride—it’s about taking the time to pause, reflect, and find your balance in life. And that’s what I hope to offer here.”