Pastors Thriving | Ministry, Leadership, Discipleship, Church Growth, Small Church Strategies - podcast cover

Pastors Thriving | Ministry, Leadership, Discipleship, Church Growth, Small Church Strategies

Kevin Elworth-Business & Ministry Coach, Passive Income, Entrepreneur Pastor, Ministry Marketingwww.pastorsthriving.com

The SOURCE for Pastor help, encouragement, strategies for growth and Leadership

Hey Pastor!

Do you wish you knew the secret to growing your church while finding balance between ministry and your family?

Do you find yourself updating your resume and browsing the job ads on ministryjobs.com?

Do you want to develop leaders within your church to relieve the burden from your shoulders, but instead you’re constantly dealing with drama and conflict?

You’re in the right place. Welcome to Pastors Thriving, where you will learn the secrets to leadership growth in your church - spiritually, numerically, and financially. You’ll learn how to equip and develop your staff and congregation so that you don’t have to feel alone on this journey - and enjoy the ministry that you’ve been called to once again.

Hi, I’m Kevin. Twenty-year ministry veteran, husband of a powerhouse wife, the father of 5 wonderful kids, and lover of Jesus powered by coffee and tacos.

It wasn’t long ago that I grew a church from zero to 700 in five short years and wrestled with the trauma and drama that goes along with intense church growth. It wasn’t until I learned the power of creativity and how I could harness it to lead others well by empowering them to share the burden. I created a culture of leadership development and was able to spend time with my family while my ministry thrived. And now I’m excited to share what I’ve learned with you!

If you’re ready to finally find some breathing room in your leading and living…learning strategies that are simple, understandable, and inspiring…giving you results that are measurable, like numerical growth, spiritual depth, and even financial growth – then this podcast is your new best friend.

Grab your AirPods and your notebook, class is in session, and thriving is here!

Next steps:

Set up a discovery call - https://calendly.com/kevinelworthcoaching/20min

Visit my website - https://kevinelworth.live

Shoot me an email - coaching@kevinelworth.live

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Episodes

075 - 3 Reasons Your Discipleship Strategy Isn’t Working (And How to Fix It Fast)

Is your church packed with activity but light on transformation? You’re not alone! In this episode, I'm breaking down three of the most common reasons discipleship strategies stall out —and what you can do right now to turn things around. Whether you’re a lead pastor or ministry leader, these insights are practical, actionable, and designed to help you build movement, not just manage programs. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why more information doesn’t equal more transformation The real reason y...

Jun 24, 202526 minSeason 2Ep. 75

076 - How to See the World Without Breaking the Bank-- Travel Hacking for Pastors with Tim Walker

On this episode of Pastors Thriving , I’m joined by pastor, entrepreneur, and travel hacking pro— Tim Walker . Tim wears a lot of hats: church planter, business owner, leadership coach, husband, and dad. But today, we’re narrowing in on one powerful topic that could seriously change the game for your personal and ministry travel: how to travel anywhere for free using points. We’re talking: What travel hacking actually is (and what it’s not ) Why pastors and ministry leaders should take advantage...

Jun 20, 202537 minSeason 2Ep. 76

074 - Why Pastors Are Quietly Struggling — And What to Do About It

If you’ve ever felt let down by ministry, misunderstood by the people you serve, or disillusioned by the gap between what you hoped would happen and what actually did… you’re not alone. In this heartfelt episode, Kevin opens up a conversation that pastors rarely get to have — about disappointment. The kind that wears on your soul. The kind you don’t talk about from the stage. The kind that quietly erodes your confidence and calling if left unaddressed. Inside this episode: What disappointment re...

Jun 17, 202519 minSeason 2Ep. 74

72 - Why You Keep Burning Out Every Winter (And What to Do Instead), with Ruben Gomez

🎙️ Pastors Thriving — Episode: “Why You Keep Burning Out Every Winter (And What to Do Instead)” with Ruben Gomez Episode Summary: In this powerful conversation, I sit down with Ruben Gomez , founder of The Seasonal Movement and creator of the Neuro-Seasonal Harmony Method . Ruben spent years doing everything right — discipline, hustle, grind — and still found himself crashing every winter. Sound familiar? That cycle of burnout, especially during the darker, colder seasons, isn’t just emotional ...

Jun 13, 202534 minSeason 2Ep. 72

073 - When God Cuts Close: A Hard Truth from John 15

In this episode of Pastors Thriving , we dive into one of the most powerful — and honestly, most painful — passages in the Gospels: John 15 . It’s a chapter we love to preach… but hate to live. Jesus tells us that those who bear fruit will be pruned so they can bear even more. But what does that actually mean? Kevin unpacks a deeply personal and biblically rich look at how pruning isn’t about punishment — it’s about preparation . And it almost always happens in the area that hurts the most: our ...

Jun 10, 202524 minSeason 2Ep. 73

70 - Real, Raw Encouragement: Exactly What to Do When You're Frustrated

Hey Pastor, We all need encouragement— all the time. Sometimes it's a steady stream we need. Other times, just one word can carry us through. Either way, the truth is the same: we need it. So today, I’m keeping it real and raw—offering the kind of encouragement you might need right now, in this exact moment. Kevin's book, Breaking the I Can't Cycle is live on Amazon right now! It's a quick read that is guaranteed to change the way you think about the opportunities you face that are ready for you...

Jun 03, 202523 minSeason 2Ep. 70

69 - Lead Like It’s Your Last Day: The Memento Mori Method for Men: Feat. Shawn Andrews

Hey Pastor! On my show today, I'm delighted to introduce you to Shawn Andrews. Shawn is a husband and father to three daughters. He is also a John Maxwell Leadership Certified Coach, speaker, and the founder of “The Inked Disciple podcast” and the “Memento Mori Method”—a faith-based coaching movement helping men live with purpose, lead with strength, and leave a legacy. Blending biblical truth with bold leadership principles, Shawn challenges men to break spiritual and practical chains across fa...

May 30, 202537 minSeason 2Ep. 69

68 - From 17 to 300: How One Church Planter Ignited a Movement in His Hometown | Feat. Andrew Broucher Interview

Hey Pastor, On today’s episode of Pastors Thriving , we’re talking church planting with Andrew Broucher—a guy who didn’t just dream about ministry, he came back home and built it from the ground up. Born and raised in Somerset, PA, Andrew planted New Hope Baptist Church in 2018 with just 17 people. Fast-forward seven years, and they’ve grown to over 300 and are still gaining momentum. It hasn’t been easy—church planting rarely is—but his story is full of grit, faith, and the kind of breakthrough...

May 23, 202541 minSeason 2Ep. 68

67 - 2 Thoughts Every Pastor Should Hear Before They Quit

In this episode of Pastors Thriving , we dive deep into John 15 —a passage every pastor knows but not every pastor lives from . If ministry has felt like a grind lately… if you’re doing all the right things and still seeing little fruit… this isn’t a hustle issue. It’s an abiding issue. Jesus makes it clear: fruit doesn’t come from effort, it comes from connection. This is your personal invitation back to the vine. Back to the source. Back to life . 🎯 What You'll Walk Away With: Why striving of...

May 20, 202524 minSeason 2Ep. 67

2.66 - Grow Your Income Without Leaving the Ministry – Feat. Dr. Michael Shafer

Hey Pastor, Let’s be honest—ministry can be fulfilling and financially frustrating at the same time. If you've ever felt the pinch, this episode is going to be a game-changer. I’m talking with Dr. Michael Shafer—a faithful pastor, founder of G6 Allies, and the brilliant mind behind Stocks for Pastors . He’s on a mission to help ministry leaders like you build long-term financial stability without compromising your calling. Through biblically grounded, battle-tested investing strategies, he’s hel...

May 16, 202554 minSeason 2Ep. 66

62. The #1 Leadership Crisis in the Church Starts at Home. Feat. Jason Purvis

Hey Pastor, On today’s episode of Pastors Thriving , I sit down with Jason Purvis —a husband, father, former pastor, and now CEO of Next Phase Leadership . Jason is on a mission to equip Christian men to lead their homes with strength, humility, and unshakable faith. As a Men’s Mental Strength Trainer, he’s helping dads break free from passivity and step fully into the role God’s called them to. In this conversation, we dive deep into what it means to build a legacy—one built on courage, clarity...

May 09, 202552 minSeason 2Ep. 62

61. Pastor Takes in 114 Orphans, Otherwise They Die Pt2

Hey Pastor, This week is Part 2 of my conversation with Sam Kayemba from Mityana, Uganda—a man on a mission to rescue orphans off the streets of Kampala and Mityana. What you're about to hear is heartbreaking—but it needs to be heard. Sam’s story is one of grit, faith, and fierce love for these kids. You’ll hear what it really takes to fight for children who’ve been abandoned, abused, and forgotten. Most of them come from places of loss and desperation... but each of them carries a story worth r...

May 02, 202527 minSeason 2Ep. 61

60. Pastor Takes in 114 Orphans, Otherwise They Die

Hey Pastor, It never ceases to amaze me how powerfully God is moving across the world—and the fact that we get to be part of it? Even better. Back in January of 2025, I had the opportunity to travel to Uganda and witness firsthand the incredible things happening at an orphan village we’ve been connected to. The backstory is wild (and I’ll share it soon), but today, I want you to meet the story that’s unfolding there right now. Over the next two episodes, you’ll be introduced to Sam and the work ...

Apr 29, 202530 minSeason 2Ep. 60

2.59-- The Pastor’s Guide to Purpose-Driven Podcasting (That Pays!) – with Rory Paquette

Hey Pastor, In this episode of Pastors Thriving , I sit down with fellow podcaster and visionary Rory Paquette. Rory has a heart for helping others find their voice and use it—literally—for the Kingdom. If you’ve ever dreamed about launching a podcast but didn’t know where to start, or if you've wondered how podcasting could both serve your church and generate additional income… this is your episode. We dig deep into: Why now is the perfect time for pastors to get behind the mic How podcasting c...

Apr 25, 202534 minSeason 2Ep. 64

63 -- From I Can’t to I Did: The Journey That Will Change Your Life

From I Can’t to I Did: The Journey That Will Change Your Life In this episode of Pastors Thriving , Kevin takes you behind the scenes of his brand-new book, Breaking the I Can’t Cycle: Moving Your Life from I Can’t to I Did! launching on May 6th . This isn’t just another leadership book—it’s a bold call to break free from the fears, false beliefs, and limiting mindsets that keep you stuck. Kevin shares personal stories, faith-filled truths, and the transformative moments that led him from stuck ...

Apr 24, 202517 minSeason 2Ep. 63

2.58 - This Is Why People Visit Your Church Once and Never Come Back. Feat. Andrew Gantt

Hey Pastor! In this can't-miss episode, Kevin sits down with Andrew Gantt—a towering figure in more ways than one—to explore the powerful, often-forgotten biblical principle of hospitality . Not the "cookies and coffee in the lobby" kind, but the real-deal, Jesus-modeled hospitality that brings healing, connection, and transformation to people’s lives. From motorcycle outreach to culinary leadership, Andrew shares how his unusual path led him to a deep revelation: hospitality and discipleship ar...

Apr 22, 202534 minSeason 2Ep. 58

2.57 - THIS is Blocking the Blessing You are Seeking!

Hey Pastor, Could the thing standing between you and your breakthrough... be you? In this deep and personal episode of Pastors Thriving , Kevin explores a powerful idea: Resistance to change might be the very thing blocking the blessing you’ve been praying for. We often preach about resisting the enemy, but what about the subtle, spiritual resistance that shows up as hesitation, fear, or old rhythms? This episode dives into what it really looks like to release resistance and embrace the change G...

Apr 15, 202523 minSeason 2Ep. 57

2.56 - Pastor, You Don’t Have to Have It All Together – God’s Grace is Piling Up Just for You

Hey Pastor, In this vulnerable, hope-filled episode of Pastors Thriving , Kevin drops the strategies and steps for a moment to speak straight to your soul. If you’ve been feeling worn down, running on empty, or secretly wondering if God’s grace is still for you — this one’s for you. Kevin shares a personal story of restoration that changed everything for him — a retreat to a cabin where God whispered a phrase that would fuel him for the next decade: “My grace is good for you too.” You’ll walk aw...

Apr 08, 202523 minSeason 2Ep. 56

2.55 - Are You Discipling the Wrong People? Most Pastors Are—and Don’t Know It

Hey Pastor! Ever feel like your church is doing a lot of stuff but not really making disciples? You’re running programs, hosting small groups, and pouring hours into your messages, but real transformation still feels out of reach. The problem? Most churches try to disciple everyone the same way—and end up reaching no one effectively. In this episode, I’m breaking down why a broad discipleship approach isn’t working and how you can sharpen your focus to reach the right people with the right strat...

Apr 01, 202520 minSeason 2Ep. 55

2.53 - Hypnotherapy To Advance Your Church!? Yes! And Here's How!

Hey Pastor In this intriguing episode, we dive into the unexpected but powerful intersection of hypnotherapy and church growth with our guest, Robin Stoltman. We explore how hypnotherapy can be a game-changer for pastors, church leaders, and congregations looking to overcome mental blocks, improve focus, and enhance spiritual growth. Robin shares insights into how hypnotherapy can help individuals break free from limiting beliefs, cultivate deeper connections, and foster a healthier, more vibran...

Mar 28, 202539 minSeason 2Ep. 53

2.54 - 3 Ways to Preach More Effective Sermons (That Get Results THIS Weekend!)

Hey Pastors Have you ever felt like your sermons aren’t landing the way you want them to? Maybe engagement is low, responses are minimal, or people seem to forget your message by Monday. That changes today. In this episode of Pastors Thriving , Kevin shares 3 simple but powerful ways to preach more effective sermons —and you’ll start seeing results this weekend ! Discover how better preparation, a single transformational focus, and a personal approach can help you deliver sermons that truly impa...

Mar 25, 202514 minSeason 2Ep. 54

7 Warning Signs You Might Be Leading a Toxic Church (And How to Fix It!

Hey Pastor Toxic church culture is a growing concern, and as pastors, we have to ask the tough question: Am I leading one? Many pastors don’t realize they’re fostering unhealthy environments until it’s too late . In this episode of Pastors Thriving , Kevin breaks down 7 warning signs that indicate you might be leading a toxic church and, more importantly, how to turn things around before it’s too late. If you’ve noticed fear, control, or burnout creeping into your leadership, this episode will e...

Mar 20, 202522 minSeason 2Ep. 52

Outreach That Transforms: Insights from Pastor Jerry Morales

Hey Pastor, Outreach and missions are at the heart of every ministry. There are always people who need to be reached—but who are they, and how do we reach them effectively? On this episode of Pastors Thriving , I’m joined by Pastor Jerry Morales , Senior Pastor at Victory Outreach in Santa Cruz, CA . Jerry has a deep passion for reaching the hopeless in his community, and today, he’s sharing how you can sharpen your focus and connect with those in need right where you are. Jerry’s message will i...

Mar 14, 202544 minSeason 2Ep. 51

5 Shocking Truths About Success in the Church (Most Pastors Get This Wrong!)

Hey Pastor! The idea of success in the church stirs up strong opinions. Should pastors even pursue success? If so, what does it actually look like? In this episode of Pastors Thriving , Kevin unpacks the tension between worldly vs. biblical success , challenges unhealthy metrics, and offers practical ways to measure true, kingdom-impacting success . If you’ve ever felt conflicted about what it means to succeed in ministry, this episode will bring clarity, encouragement, and a fresh perspective o...

Mar 11, 202517 minSeason 2Ep. 50

Manifesting Your Dreams: The Law of Attraction Through a Biblical Lens with Patricia Stepler

Hey Pastor! In this episode, I sit down with Patricia Stepler, who shares her insights on the law of attraction and manifestation from a biblical perspective. Patricia breaks down these popular concepts and explains how they align with biblical teachings, offering a fresh perspective on how to intentionally create the life you desire. We discuss how faith, positive thinking, and speaking God's promises can work together to attract the right outcomes in life. Whether you're new to the law of attr...

Mar 07, 202543 minSeason 2Ep. 49

This One Missions Trip Changed Everything – Here’s Why

Hey Pastor How does your church approach missions? My first exposure to missions back in high school completely changed my life, shaping my heart for global impact. In today’s episode, I want to help you refine your church’s missions focus and share some key insights from my recent trip to Africa. In this episode, I reflect on my recent trip to Africa, sharing key moments that inspired and challenged me. I discuss the powerful ways churches can sharpen their focus on missions projects worldwide ...

Mar 04, 202527 minSeason 2Ep. 48

Daily Practices that Will Keep Your Mind in Check

Hey Pastor! Your mindset determines your ministry’s impact—but it’s your daily practices that keep it in check. In Part 2 of The 7 Mindset Shifts Every Pastor Needs to Thrive , I'm going to dive into actionable, daily strategies that will help you maintain a healthy, thriving mindset. Whether you're struggling with self-doubt, burnout, or just the pressures of leadership, these practical steps will give you the tools to stay mentally and spiritually strong every single day. What You’ll Learn in ...

Feb 25, 202514 minSeason 2Ep. 47

7 Daily Mindset Shifts Every Pastor Needs to Thrive

Hey Pastor! Your mindset is the foundation of your ministry. In this episode of Pastors Thriving , I will share 7 daily mindset shifts that every pastor needs to adopt in order to lead with confidence, overcome self-doubt, and stay energized for the long haul. If you’ve ever struggled with feelings of inadequacy, burnout, or the weight of ministry responsibilities, this episode will give you practical steps to transform the way you think—and thrive in your calling. What You’ll Learn in This Epis...

Feb 18, 202513 minSeason 2Ep. 46

Grow Your Income in 2025 Without Losing Your Integrity, Your Time, or Your Purpose

Hey Pastor, Money and ministry—two words that often create tension for pastors. But what if financial growth wasn’t about greed, but about greater impact? In this episode of Pastors Thriving , I'm going to share practical and biblically sound strategies for increasing your income in 2025 without sacrificing your integrity, your time, or your primary purpose. Learn how to diversify your income, create high-impact revenue streams, and guard your time while remaining fully aligned with your calling...

Feb 11, 202518 minSeason 2Ep. 45

4 Crucial Insights Toward Church Growth and How You Might Be Viewing It Wrong

Hey Pastor! Are you measuring church growth the right way, or have you been seeing it through a limiting lens? In this episode of Pastors Thriving , I'm going to challenge common perspectives on church growth with four crucial insights that will reshape how you approach ministry expansion. Learn why growth isn’t just about numbers, why leadership development is a game-changer, how over-programming could be holding you back, and why real impact happens beyond your church walls. If you’ve been fee...

Feb 03, 202513 minSeason 2Ep. 44
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