About Marc
Get to know the man behind the vision - from family values to professional excellence, discover what drives Marc Estes in both life and leadership.
Family Man
I’m a family man. Susan’s husband, a dad, and thankful grandpa. We’re in the South Bay, Los Angeles area, close to our kids and grandkids. Give me a meal at home, a walk on the Strand with Susan, or quiet in the courtyard with the waves. That is where I set my priorities and discover the purpose of my work.
Normal Guy
Most days I am just a husband with sand in my flip-flops and coffee in my hand. I like long walks on the Strand with Susan, courtyard hangouts with the grandkids, and slow dinners with friends where the stories get better every time. I read a lot, ask more questions than I answer, and I am happiest helping a team get unstuck. I grill a decent burger, carry folding chairs without being asked, and try to return texts the same day. Mornings start with prayer and Scripture. Nights end with gratitude. In between I try to show up, be kind, and love people well.
CEO of VisitorReach
I lead VisitorReach to help churches meet people online and welcome them into real communities in person. Most days I am listening to pastors, coaching teams, and shaping tools that make follow-up personal and consistent. My calling is to serve the people who serve people, so their work is lighter and far more effective.
Author
I write to steward what God puts on my heart. I listen first, journal, then craft clear and simple words that help real people take a next step with courage. That has grown into books like The Road We Must Travel Again, The New Roman Road, Jesus Today, What Now, and the Small Group Leaders Handbook. I write for pastors and for anyone trying to follow Jesus in everyday life, hoping every page feels like a steady voice at the table saying God is near and there is a way forward.
Leader
I build leaders and walk with them so they can thrive in every part of life. I have led in the local church and beyond as Senior Pastor of Mannahouse in Portland and President of Portland Bible College, investing in emerging leaders from many nations. I helped launch the School of Kingdom Business and Entrepreneurship to equip men and women for marketplace influence with the same biblical clarity and practical skill we expect in ministry. I have partnered with movements like MFI and ARC to encourage pastors and plant churches, and I continue to meet one-on-one, coach teams, and consult with business and nonprofit leaders. Leadership is not a title to me; it is a commitment to know people, believe in them, and help them grow into all God has called them to be.
Past Experience
My path has moved between ministry and the marketplace. I started in itinerant evangelism with Christian Equippers International, helping believers share their faith. I later served as Senior Pastor of Mannahouse and President of Portland Bible College, building teams, training leaders, and supporting global church planting. In the marketplace I have been a part owner and operator of a carpet company, advised organizations, and served on boards for ministries, nonprofits, and community-minded companies. The focus has stayed the same: invest in people and help them grow into steady, skilled leaders in the church, at work, and in their city.
Ready to Connect?
Whether you're interested in booking Marc for speaking engagements, exploring his resources, or just wanting to connect, there are many ways to get in touch.