MEET THE TEAM

  • Shane Harden

    Lead Pastor
    sharden@brancheschurch.us

    Married to the ever so beautiful and incredibly talented Kate, and proud Dad to Gabriel(22), Isaac(21), and Eden (18) - I am a Pennsylvania native and have been serving as a founding lead pastor of Branches ministry since 2012. I am thoroughly passionate about sharing Jesus, worship music, and am a singer and songwriter, worship leader.  Also very grateful the Branches team lets me join their efforts. I'm an avid sand volleyball player and passionate about photography! I love our church and I am very excited about the years ahead of us. 

  • Randy Watson

    Pastor
    rwatson@brancheschurch.us

    I am a husband married to Julie, the sweetheart of my youth, for 33 years and counting. I’m a father to Lindsey (29), Melissa (27) who is married to her high school sweetheart Kyle, Mark (20), and Luke (17). I’m a grandfather to the amazing Emmett (6 months and counting). I am also a second career pastor after being called out of a 30-year career as an R&D chemist. I love bringing that same experimental approach and rigorous search for truth to my ministry at Branches. Julie and I are avid outdoor adventurers and enjoy rock climbing, wilderness backpacking, and just generally being together outside. We consider it a true honor to serve at Branches Church.

  • Terry Schroeder

    Pastor
    tschroeder@brancheschurch.us

    God has blessed me with a marriage to my beautiful wife Elaine. Together we have a blended family of nine adult children. I was called into ministry over 25 years ago and have served as a covocational pastor; working within the church and in the marketplace at the same time. The Holy Spirit has provided me the gifts of leadership, administration, and wisdom which I strive to use to bring glory to Christ both within and outside the church. Family is an important part of my life and our church family at Branches provides us a living demonstration of the love Jesus has for all of us. I hope you will join us at Branches Church.

  • Ted Hospodar

    Community Pastor
    thospodar@brancheschurch.us

    I'm married to my beautiful wife Angie and we have four wonderful teenage sons currently attending Kings High School; Carter, Jacob, Alex, and TJ. I am a lifelong resident of Loveland and our family loves our community & church family at Branches. I love traveling with my family, fitness, The Ohio State Buckeyes, and I'm full of endless dad jokes. I love serving and caring for others and it is a privilege, honor, and blessing to joyfully serve here at Branches Church. Let's connect and grab coffee!

  • Madison Houston

    Producer of Services / Administrator

    mhouston@brancheschurch.us

    Hey y’all! My name is Madison Houston! I just recently married my wonderful husband Isaiah. Right after, I moved from Nashville, TN to join him in his home town of Cincinnati! Isaiah is currently serving as a Cincinnati Police Officer. It has always been his dream to be able to serve & protect his community. I am brand new to Branches but have loved the Harden family since before I could talk. I am thrilled to serve with them & this whole team as the Production Manager. I have been volunteering on numerous production teams since I was 13 years old, in just about every position you can serve in. My heart has always been in this ministry, & I firmly believe that this is where God has gifted me to serve the furtherance of His kingdom. It is such an honor to be a part of the Branches ministry.

  • Blaine Hamilton

    Blaine Hamilton

    Student's Pastor
    bhamilton@brancheschurch.us

    Hey there! My name is Blaine and it’s my absolute joy to serve the youth here at Branches! Having served with #BSG throughout college, I joined the Branches team in January of 2019 when God called me away from my dreams of becoming a doctor (Praise God that He did.) I’m incredibly passionate about all people knowing God & the gospel. I believe teenagers are an integral part of the church and need to be treated accordingly. In August of 2020, I married my college sweetheart, Emily, who is the most amazing person that I know. Together, we have the privilege to lead and serve here at Branches.

  • Amy Keeton

    Children’s Director
    akeeton@brancheschurch.us

    Hey all! I’ve been married for 15 years to my wonderful husband Brent, mother of 5 and Nana to 3. I spend much of my time engaged in the life of my family. We stay busy with kid’s activities and love being outside. We enjoy time camping, hiking and spending our vacations at the ocean. Originally from Waverly OH, I moved to the greater Cincinnati area in 2003 when I took a full time Children’s leader position at a local church. I have served as a Children’s Pastor/Director for more than 20 years. I love to help kids and families discover the love of Jesus and help them grow in their gifting to build the Kingdom. My passion is to partner with families and love kids as we help the next generation develop a faith of their own. I am super excited to meet you and your children!

  • Melanie Kuehner

    Hospitality Lead
    mkuehner@brancheschurch.us

    Hello! I first began serving at Branches 9 years ago - when it all began! My husband, Jeff, and I live in Mason and have two sons. I lead the team of volunteers responsible for making sure everyone who comes through our doors feels welcome and loved.

  • John Carmack

    Band Lead

    Hi there! I was introduced to the Branches Family 4 years ago by my girlfriend (now wife), Tammy. Not long after relocating to Cincinnati, I joined the worship team playing keyboard. Tammy and I have 2 dogs and are expecting our 4th horse. Away from Branches, I teach Middle School Choir, General Music, and Theatre. I love to Praise God and draw people closer to Him through Worship.