Dr. James Bryan Smith (M.Div., Yale University Divinity School; DMin Fuller Seminary) is the Executive Director of the Apprentice Institute. Dr. Smith is currently a theology professor at Friends University, in Wichita, Kansas, and an ordained elder in the United Methodist Church. He is the author of ten books, most notably The Apprentice Series (InterVarsity Press), which continue to shape the work of the Apprentice Institute. Dr. Smith’s other titles include Devotional Classics (with Richard J. Foster), Embracing the Love of God, Room of Marvels, and Hidden in Christ. His most recent book, The Magnificent Journey, was published in October of 2018, the second book in a new trilogy.

Eddi Porter has coined the title of Helper on the Apprentice Institute Team. After a career in corporate as well as education, she loves spending her golden years working on all things TAG and hanging out with her family and husband Don.

Bronwyn Redus is the Events and Programs Coordinator for the Apprentice Institute. She graduated from Friends University in 2025 with a B.S. in Liberal Studies and Christian Spiritual Formation, with a Music Minor. Bronwyn enjoys reading, hiking, spending time with her loved ones, and attempting crafts. She is excited to start her journey with the Apprentice Institute after going through the CSF program and volunteering for TAG as a student.

Matthew Johnson is a spiritual director, retreat leader, and evoker of stories; helping others listen for God’s guidance in their lives. He serves with the Apprentice Institute at Friends University, the School of Kingdom Living (Dallas Willard Ministries), and in his own spiritual direction practice. He is the author of “Worship” a book study in the Holy Living Series from Abingdon Press and has written small group and leader’s guides for The Good and Beautiful God, The Good and Beautiful Life, and The Good and Beautiful Community. He is a co-founder of the Neighboring Movement, and prior to that he served at the Andover United Methodist Church as the assistant minister for 15 years. In 2015, he and his wife, Catherine, hiked the Camino de Santiago, across Spain. 

Jacob Smith is the Director of The Apprentice Institute & the Producer for the Things Above Podcast. He graduated from Friends University with a B.A. in Graphic Design with an emphasis in Web Design and a certificate in Christian Spiritual Formation. In 2024, Jacob received his MBA from Friends University. Jacob has been with the Apprentice Institute for over 9 years and has enjoyed working with such a great team. He is passionate about Christian Spiritual Formation and the impact it has on his life and others. Jacob enjoys hanging with friends, golfing, and watching the Denver Broncos.