Hope Team Origin Team


Hope Team Origin Team


Season 5, Episode 11 – "Hope Team Origin Story"

In this powerful and emotional episode, William Axtell, founder and host of RezRootz, sits down with Dr. Jason Koppen, President of Indigenous Bible College, for a deep and heartfelt conversation on calling, leadership, and legacy.

Together, they reflect on the origins of RezRootz during the early days of COVID, how God shaped the vision through seasons of lament, and the impact the podcast has had across Native communities. Jason also shares his personal testimony—from plans to become a medical missionary to his unexpected, life-defining call to serve Native peoples.

Will opens up about his own transition, stepping away from RezRootz and into a new chapter of ministry back home in Washington. The two discuss the weight and beauty of Indigenous ministry, healing, reconciliation, and what it means to disciple young Native men in Christ.

This episode captures not just stories—but a movement.

️ Highlights include:

• The story behind the start of RezRootz

• Jason's journey to IBC

• Ministry in the pandemic & reaching youth through livestreams

• Will's emotional goodbye and future podcast plans

• A heartfelt prayer and commissioning