In this episode, we sit down with Tyler Harden, church growth consultant and co-founder of Firm Foundations Marketing. We unpack practical strategies for clarifying your church’s identity and mission to foster growth and unity. In this conversation, we discuss: Communicating your church’s identity clearly Common challenges in defining mission and vision Engaging leadership in the identity process Differentiating mission from methods in ministry Reaching the right people in your community Making ...
Aug 21, 2025•52 min
In this episode, Kendall Conner and Jessica Moore explore practical ways churches can maximize their church management software (ChMS) to strengthen ministry and streamline operations. In this conversation, we discuss: Creating a complete church directory Organizing groups for connection Sending mass communications Automating follow-up interactions Recording attendance for care Leveraging dashboards for insights Join us as we dive into How to Get the Most Out of Your ChMS with Kendall Conner and...
Aug 13, 2025•56 min
In this episode, we sit down with Cody Patterson, Production Pastor at Life Fellowship Church. Previously a marketing leader at MxU and Renewed Vision, Cody now consults with churches to help them thrive through practical, creative solutions. We explore smart tech and media tips to help churches do more with less, no matter their size or resources. In this conversation, we discuss: Building and empowering volunteer tech teams Overcoming budget and equipment limitations Creative DIY solutions for...
Aug 06, 2025•48 min
In this episode, we sit down with Jack Whitis, CEO of WavMaker and seasoned technology and engineering leader, and Mark Stuart, co-founder of WavMaker, Grammy-winning former lead vocalist of Audio Adrenaline, and philanthropist. We explore how churches can amplify their creative storytelling and connect with their communities more effectively through music. In this conversation, we discuss: The power of music in storytelling What “royalty-free” music really means Legal challenges with music in c...
Jul 30, 2025•1 hr
In this episode, we sit down with Lee Coate, executive pastor, author, and president of Growmentum Group, who brings over 30 years of ministry and leadership experience. We explore practical frameworks for navigating the various seasons of life and leadership, while equipping leaders to embrace and empower multigenerational teams within the church. In this conversation, we discuss: The four seasons of leadership roles Embracing your current leadership season Empowering and mentoring next-generat...
Jul 24, 2025•36 min
In this episode, Kendall Conner and Jessica Moore explore how churches can create a culture where inviting others is natural, practical, and effective in fostering growth and belonging. In this conversation, we discuss: The power of personal church invitations Building an environment people want to share Creative invite tools and strategies Using events as invitation opportunities Effective communication for invite culture Sharing stories to inspire invitations Join us as we dive into building a...
Jul 16, 2025•58 min
In this episode, we sit down with Lee Cool, church facility and operations expert at eSPACE. We explore how effective stewardship of church facilities can support and advance your ministry’s mission. In this conversation, we discuss: Why facility management is often overlooked Facilities’ impact on church health and mission Practical maintenance and stewardship strategies Common challenges and solutions for churches Automating and optimizing facility operations Join us as we dive into Stewarding...
Jul 09, 2025•53 min
In this episode, we sit down with Jay Kranda, the Innovative Tech Pastor at Saddleback Church and author of “Online Church Is Not The Answer: Beyond Just Streaming Church to Hybrid Disciple Making." We explore how churches can move beyond simply live streaming to building thriving digital and hybrid discipleship communities. In this conversation, we discuss: Creative ways churches can use live streaming Moving past “checklist” digital ministry Equipping volunteers for digital engagement Strategi...
Jul 03, 2025•59 min
In this episode, we sit down with Emily Fascilla, nonprofit fundraising expert and Director of Client Strategy at The Giving Block. We explore innovative giving solutions for the modern church and how technology is transforming the ways people support ministry. In this conversation, we discuss: Accepting crypto and stock gifts in churches Benefits and security of online giving platforms Tax advantages for donors using assets Making generosity accessible for all ages Communicating new giving meth...
Jun 25, 2025•51 min
In this episode, we sit down with Chandler Boyce, church marketing coach and owner of The Marketing Co-op, who helps pastors expand their church's online reach through SEO, paid ads, and smart digital strategy. We explore practical steps for making your church’s online presence more effective and visible, turning digital invisibility into unmissable outreach. In this conversation, we discuss: Why your website is your digital foundation Optimizing your search engine profile Turning your site into...
Jun 18, 2025•59 min
In this episode, Kendall Conner and Jessica Moore explore creative and practical ways to keep your church engaged throughout the busy summer months. In this conversation, we discuss: Summer-themed message series ideas Using email newsletters for connection Flexible small group strategies Leveraging social media for engagement Planning outreach and community events Utilizing online giving and livestreams Join us as we dive into creative ways to keep your church engaged during summer with Kendall ...
Jun 11, 2025•50 min
In this episode, we sit down with Emily B. Cummins, author, speaker, podcast host, and chief of staff at Church of Hope in Ocala, Florida. We explore what it means to step confidently into the leader God has called you to be, embracing the ongoing journey of becoming. In this conversation, we discuss: Navigating self-doubt and identity in leadership Embracing the process of becoming Communicating vision during change and conflict Building healthy rhythms and self-awareness Empowering others to d...
Jun 04, 2025•41 min
In this episode, we sit down with Holly Tate, executive coach, growth strategist, and founder of the Ready Network. We explore practical strategies for church growth and discover frameworks that move beyond theory and actually work in the real world, with insights that can help your team go from stuck to strategic. In this conversation, we discuss: Why churches feel stuck in growth The impact of external and internal challenges The Ready Framework for strategic planning Building action plans wit...
May 28, 2025•53 min
In this episode, we sit down with Phil Bowdle, creative ministry leader, best-selling author, and VP of Marketing at Slingshot Group. We explore strategies for rethinking church communication to ensure clarity and effective engagement. In this conversation, we discuss: Prioritizing what matters in church communication Clarity versus creativity in messaging Avoiding announcement overload Engaging your audience beyond Sunday Building story-driven content Scalable systems for any size church Join u...
May 21, 2025•52 min
In this episode, we sit down with Russ Ewell, executive minister at Bay Area Christian Church, author, social entrepreneur, and advocate for individuals with special needs and disabilities. Russ shares his powerful personal journey and how it led him to champion a church culture where everyone can belong, particularly those who are often overlooked in traditional ministry settings. In this conversation, we discuss: The personal experiences that ignited Russ’s mission The vital need for accessibl...
May 14, 2025•55 min
In this episode, Kendall Conner and Jessica Moore dive into practical tips for attracting and keeping passionate volunteers at your church. Volunteers are the heartbeat of every ministry, yet many leaders struggle with the constant challenge of recruiting and retaining them. The good news? It doesn’t have to be this way. In this conversation, we discuss: Casting vision to motivate volunteers Creating clear and easy volunteer on-ramps The power of personal and specific invitations Publicly celebr...
May 07, 2025•1 hr 4 min
In this episode, we sit down with Greg Atkinson, best-selling author, international keynote speaker, and founder of Entre Church. We explore how entrepreneurial thinking can help churches reimagine missional engagement and create sustainable impact in their communities. In this conversation, we discuss: Creative outreach methods through entrepreneurship. Rethinking church finances beyond the offering plate. Practical ideas for church-based businesses. Leveraging church facilities for community u...
Apr 30, 2025•28 min
In this episode, we sit down with Jaime Montano, Senior Motion Graphics Designer at Ministry Brands and creative mind behind thousands of worship backgrounds used in churches worldwide. We explore how visual media can enhance worship experiences and create more engaging, intentional environments for congregations. In this conversation, we discuss: The evolution of church media and visuals Best practices for screens and projectors Starting points for media in worship services Choosing motion back...
Apr 23, 2025•50 min
This week on the Church Leadership Lab podcast, we're taking a break from our usual format to honor the significance of Holy Week. As we pause to reflect on this sacred time, we're reminded of the incredible hope that we have through Christ’s resurrection. Ministry leaders, we know this can be a busy time for you. The Easter season often comes with extra events, long to-do lists, and high expectations. As much as we understand that this can be a hectic time, we want to remind you to take a momen...
Apr 14, 2025•5 min
In this episode, we sit down with Micah Pritchard, a seasoned leader with a strong background in software development and team leadership, currently at Service Reef. We explore how churches can effectively mobilize their congregations for missions and the impact it can have both locally and globally. In this conversation, we discuss: • Defining missions within the church context. • Importance of discipleship through mission trips. • Balancing local and global missions opportunities. • Effective ...
Apr 09, 2025•47 min
In this episode, we sit down with Ryan Carter, a seasoned leader with over 17 years of experience in helping ministries creating safe environments for attendees, volunteers, and children. We explore the importance of safety measures in church environments and how ministry leaders can effectively implement these practices. In this conversation, we discuss: The importance of volunteer background checks. Ensuring safety in kids ministry. Handling large events safely. The role of policies when it co...
Apr 02, 2025•46 min
In this episode, we sit down with Mark MacDonald, a church branding strategist and founder of Be Known for Something. We explore strategies to ignite engagement at your church and the importance of clear communication in reaching your congregation and community effectively. In this conversation, we discuss: Clarifying church communication strategies. Engaging congregation beyond Sunday services. Strategies for enhancing your worship experiences. Engaging first-time guests and community members. ...
Mar 26, 2025•49 min
In this episode, we sit down with Justin Romine, the managing partner and CEO of HR Ministry Solutions. We explore avoiding common HR mistakes in ministry and how churches can effectively manage their teams and resources. In this conversation, we discuss: Importance of HR in ministry settings. Risks of outdated employee handbooks. Effective use of staff lifestyle agreements. Classifying and paying church roles correctly. Cultural and discipleship costs of poor HR. Join us as we dive into avoidin...
Mar 19, 2025•54 min
In this episode, we sit down with Pastor Nick Newman, founder of Selah Leaders and Lead Pastor of Propel Church in Mount Pleasant, North Carolina. We explore how ministry leaders can prioritize rest and prevent burnout through intentional rhythms and support systems. In this conversation, we discuss: Importance of rest for ministry leaders. Challenges of balancing ministry and rest. Role of identity in preventing burnout. Strategies for sustainable church leadership. Practical tips for implement...
Mar 12, 2025•50 min
In this episode, Kendall Conner and Jessica Moore explore practical tips to prepare your church for the Easter ministry season. We share essential advice that will equip your church for Easter, ensuring a smooth and successful event for your congregation and community. In this conversation, we discuss: Benefits of starting Easter planning early. Communicating effectively with your church. Setting volunteers up for success. Planning worship services with intention. Creating a meaningful follow-up...
Mar 05, 2025•52 min
In this episode, we sit down with Tyler Harden, a church growth consultant and co-founder of Firm Foundations Marketing. We explore how churches can utilize data to effectively identify and reach their target audience. In this conversation, we discuss: Using data for church growth. Defining your church's ideal audience. The five Ps of defining a target audience. The role of data in decision making. Aligning outreach with your ideal audience. Join us as we dive into using data to discover your ch...
Feb 26, 2025•48 min
In this episode, we sit down with Brandon Goff, pastor of Radiate Church and Executive Director of the Acts 2 Network of Churches and Leaders. We explore how to navigate difficult leadership seasons and the lessons learned along the way. In this conversation, we discuss: Navigating unexpected leadership challenges. Overcoming grief as a leader. Phases of healing in leadership. The power of acknowledgment and vision. Mobilizing the church after hardship. The importance of personal leadership deve...
Feb 19, 2025•48 min
In this episode, we sit down with Steve Fogg, an early adopter of church online and online campus pastor at Crossway Baptist Church in Melbourne, Australia. We explore how ministries can effectively reach their communities online through digital strategies and engagement. In this conversation, we discuss: The importance of church websites. Engaging social media strategies. Benefits of live streaming services. Creating discoverable, faith-based content. Building digital ministry teams. Join us as...
Feb 12, 2025•53 min
In this episode, we sit down with Pastor Jeff Kapusta, the founding and lead pastor of LifePoint Church, a life-giving church in Wilmington, North Carolina. We explore how to create spiritual momentum at your church and the strategies that have brought fresh life to timeless elements of the faith for his congregation. In this conversation, we discuss: • How to inspire your church to pray. • Innovative ways to engage with the Bible. • Creating can’t-miss worship events. • Addressing church growth...
Feb 05, 2025•42 min
In this episode of the Church Leadership Lab Podcast, we sit down with Katie Allred, founder of ChurchCommunications.com, author, professor, and thought leader on marketing, business, and Christian leadership. We explore how churches can leverage AI to save time and improve communication while focusing on meaningful ministry. In this conversation, we discuss: • AI and church communications intersection. • Using AI for content planning. • Efficient social media content creation. • Segmenting cong...
Jan 29, 2025•49 min
