Check Out Isaiah Marshall’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Isaiah Marshall

Isaiah, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I grew up in Detroit in a single-parent household, raised by a strong, hardworking woman. From an early age I loved sports, but it wasn’t until the 8th grade—when I discovered track and field—that I found my passion. Track not only allowed me to explore new parts of the country, but it also introduced me to an incredible high school coach who believed in me when I couldn’t see it in myself. His investment sparked my lifelong commitment to investing in youth.

In high school, I was fortunate to be part of a state championship team and earned recognition as an All-American, which opened the door to college. I began at Mississippi State University where I was introduced to the Fellowship of Christian Athletes—a ministry that made my faith feel tangible. I later transferred to Tennessee State University, where my involvement in track, FCA, and campus life deepened my commitment to serving others. It was at TSU that I met my wife and a mentor who further shaped my desire to empower youth.

During college, I discovered a love for writing. What started as journaling evolved into poetry and eventually led me to spoken word—a creative outlet that helped me transform life’s challenges into beauty. After earning my Bachelor’s in Health Sciences at TSU, I pursued a Master of Divinity at Lipscomb University. While in seminary, I joined the Air Force chaplain candidate program and continued to work with FCA, solidifying my path toward youth ministry.

After serving a couple of years with FCA in Nashville, I embraced a seven-year stint as a youth pastor at a local church. Today, I serve as the Director of Ministry Development for Rooted Ministry, while also dedicating 13 years of service as a Chaplain in the Air Force Reserve. Along the way, I’ve published a book and performed my poetry on stages like the Tennessee Performing Arts Center and at various events, camps, and schools.

This journey—from a Detroit upbringing to ministry and creative expression—has been a continuous evolution of faith, mentorship, and a deep commitment to making a difference in the lives of young people.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No, it hasn’t been a smooth road. Growing up in the inner city of Detroit came with its fair share of challenges. Raised in a single-parent home, I often felt the absence of a consistent father figure, which left some lasting wounds. This gap made the support of my high school track coach and later my college mentor even more significant—they filled a void I didn’t even know existed.

There were defining moments that truly tested my resilience. In my junior year of high school, a friend and I were robbed at gunpoint—a traumatic experience that forced me to confront fear and learn to be resilient. Then, during my senior year, my mom’s diagnosis with breast cancer shook our world. Witnessing her battle the disease, and eventually overcome it through unwavering faith and determination, left an indelible mark on me. My mom’s journey—from overcoming her own obstacles, juggling full-time work and studies, and transforming her life from that of a high school dropout to a nurse practitioner—became a powerful example of hard work and perseverance. These struggles have shaped who I am today and continue to inspire my commitment to overcoming challenges and investing in youth.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I wear several hats in my professional life, combining creative communication with ministry leadership. As the Director of Ministry Development for Rooted Ministry, I empower and equip youth ministry leaders to disciple students toward a lifelong faith in Jesus, helping young people run their race to win. In addition, I’ve proudly served as a chaplain in the Air Force Reserve for 13 years—a role that has deepened my commitment to service and mentorship.

Beyond these roles, I also express my passion and creativity as a spoken word artist, using my platform to glorify God, edify others, and point people toward hope. Professionally, I am most proud of the opportunities I have to invest in young lives, serving as the mentor I once needed through the example of my high school coach and college mentor. On a personal note, I cherish being a loving husband of 16 years and a devoted father to three beautiful kids—an accomplishment especially meaningful given my own upbringing. Ultimately, I take great pride in making art from the broken pieces of life, turning challenges into opportunities for transformation and hope.

What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I was an emotional kid in a world where showing your feelings wasn’t always seen as “tough.” I loved being outdoors with friends, always active and finding joy in the simple moments of play. Whether it was hanging out with my friends or inventing creative games at home—like rigging a wire hanger between the door and a wall to turn rolled-up socks into makeshift basketballs when it was too cold to go outside—I was always on the move and always finding fun. My childhood revolved around sports; for a while, I believed that being good at sports was the only way I could make a meaningful contribution. It wasn’t until I had to let that part of my life go that I discovered there was so much more I could offer. I was a mamma’s boy, and the love and values from home helped shape the resilient, resourceful person I am today.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.isaiahmarshall.com
• Instagram: @theisaiahmarshall
• Facebook: @theisaiahmarshall
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isaiah-marshall-30757542/
• Youtube: @theisaiahmarshall
• Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4vaq7mlrhuXYLfRidRndXF