Leading Simple with Rusty George

We all have goals for the New Year, and I hope one of yours is to grow in your faith. In this episode, Pastor Troy Kennedy, the Next Steps Pastor at Westside Family Church in Lenexa, KS, assists us in examining spiritual formation and how it can aid you in achieving your goals for the new year.Thank you to Subsplash for partnering with us! If you're looking for an app for your church, look no further! Subsplash has everything you need to increase engagement beyond Sunday. Check them out at http://subsplash.com/simple

After 20 years at a place, you pick up a thing or two. And after 20 years of leading Real Life Church, here are five lessons I've learned that I believe can help you, whether you're in ministry or just seeking some valuable insights for your life journey.Speaking of things I've picked up along the way, Subsplash is a tool I've been using while at Real Life Church to help our community connect beyond Sunday. From facilitating donations to sharing messages and more, Subsplash stands out as our favorite tool for fostering connections. Explore their services at http://subsplash.com/simple.

2024, It's almost here and I've got ONE tip on how to make your faith simple in the New Year. Thank you to Subsplash for partnering with us! If you're looking for an app for your church, look no further! Subsplash has everything you need to increase engagement beyond Sunday. Check them out at http://subsplash.com/simple

Is Christmas really simple? I mean, does the time of year stop all that is going on in life? If we look closely, we can see a thread running throughout the Christmas story that makes it all a little simpler.A huge thank you to Subsplash for sponsoring the podcast. If you're a church looking to increase engagement, give Subsplash a call or click here for more information: http://subsplash.com/simple

I love the nativity scene! Growing up, it was my responsibility to assemble it, and I enjoyed arranging all the figures in their proper places, carefully positioning them under our family Christmas tree. But did I overlook a piece? Joseph, check. Mary, check. Baby Jesus, check. Shepherds, check. Wise Men, check. Barn animals, check. However, after reading Revelation, I realized I might have overlooked a significant character. Listen closely to find out who else was present at the nativity scene that you should be aware of. A huge thank you to Subsplash for sponsoring the podcast, if you're a church looking to increase engagment, give Subaplsh a call or click here for more information http://subsplash.com/simple

For this episode of Simple Faith, pull up a chair with Dr. James Emery White. He's the visionary behind the successful church plant, Mecklenburg Community Church in Charlotte, North Carolina. His tale of starting a church without any people, money, or a building is inspiring. We get the chance to talk about two of his passions - theology and culture. Hear him break down how this blend helped shape the trajectory of his church and filled the gap between academia and church planning.That passion gives us a glimpse into his innovative approach to church leadership. And that's clear as we look at what community looks like in the digital age, drawing parallels between Martin Luther's use of the printing press and today's digital platforms like Twitch and TikTok. This was such a great conversation you won't want to miss.ResourcesEpisode TranscriptConnect with Dr. WhiteInstagramFacebookTwitterMecklenburg Community Church websiteHybrid Church: Rethinking the Church for a Post-Christian Digital Age by James Emery WhiteChurch and Culture website

How do we understand the soul? One of my most influential professors from my time in school shares with us some of the lessons he has learned over the course of his life when it comes to the soul. In his latest book A Soul's House, Dr. Jones helps you understand that spiritual formation goes beyond a mere checklist of activities to complete. Instead, it is a lifelong transformational journey, empowered by God's grace and pursued for His glory, as beautifully explained in this book.Dr. J.K. Jones is the former Pastor of Spiritual Formation at Eastview Christian Church, Normal, Illinois and the former director of the MA in Spiritual Formation at Lincoln Christian University. He currently teaches part-time in the graduate studies program at Ozark Christian College, while continuing to travel, teaching and preaching as opportunities arise.

The holidays often don't resemble the picturesque 'Hallmark' scenes depicted on TV. In reality, they can be quite chaotic. Consider the rush to plan activities, decide on destinations, create guest lists, manage expenses that seem to escalate unexpectedly. Amidst it all, we're reminded to express gratitude, but it can feel overwhelming, right?I recently discovered something incredibly helpful—the four 'A's of Thanksgiving. I discuss these in detail on an episode of Simple Faith.

My passion is making faith simple, and one of the tools I love is Subsplash. Subplash is a company that focuses on how we can reach people beyond Sunday. What if you could extend ministry outside of the weekend experience? I talk with the guy in charge of Subsplash, Chris Sharpe about why he loves partnering with churches and what he sees about connecting with your audience 24/7. You can find out more about one of our favorite ministry tools at Real Life Church at http://subsplash.com/simple

Ever wondered how a pastor's kid from Trinidad and Tobago ended up ministering love in the American marketplace? Join me as I sit down with Gary Kahn as he takes us through his unique faith walk. Gary's life story is inspiring: from a restless pastor's kid exploring his understanding of God to hearing God's call and moving toward ministry. His 32 years of ministry have seen their fair share of crises and questioning, but through it all, Gary found his way back to the unshakeable foundations of his faith.And it doesn't end at the pulpit. Gary navigated the transition from traditional pastoral work into chaplaincy, bringing Christ's love into the workplace. He uncovers the process of building relationships with people who may not necessarily step foot in a church and shares how these connections create a platform to exhibit the love of Christ in real life ways. Gary also shares about his latest book, "That Didn't Go the Way I Thought," where he provides a refreshing take on faith and life's surprising twists. Listen in to this week's Simple Faith.Special thanks to our sponsor, Subsplash! You can find our more about one of our favorite ministry tools at Real Life Church at http://subsplash.com/simpleResourcesEpisode TranscriptConnect with GaryFacebookMessage of the Open Bible - websiteIn the Waiting - articleThat Didn't Turn Out The Way I thought - articleThat Didn't Turn Out the Way I Thought by Gary Kahn

Are you ready to unlock the secrets to standing out as a top candidate in an executive search? Join us as we sit down with William Vanderbloemen, who brings fascinating insights from his analysis of 30,000 interviews, unveiling the 12 essential habits that differentiate the standouts from the rest. Surprisingly, these weren't about a high IQ or an Ivy League education – but teachable habits like responsiveness that can make a world of difference.Then, we shift our focus to why human-to-human skills, liberal arts degrees, and a track record of performance are crucial indicators of future success. The conversation takes an interesting turn as we debate the significance of allowing candidates to ask questions during interviews, the misunderstood dynamics of job transitions, and balancing leadership with testimony in a church setting. Plus, we talk about William's new book, 'Be a Unicorn,' a game-changer in how we perceive careers and personal growth.ResourcesEpisode TranscriptVanderbloemen WebsiteConnect With WilliamInstagramTwitter / XLinkedInBe the Unicorn by William VanderbloemenForbes.com Contributions

How do you know when it's time to go? After 20 years at Real Life Church my family and I made the decision to make a move. In this episode I cover why and the lessons I learned along the way.

Listen in as we journey with Jaime Puerta through a story of profound loss, recovery, and hope. Jaime recounts the tragic loss of her son, Daniel Puerta Johnson, a precocious and intelligent young man, who fell victim to fentanyl poisoning in 2020. Through his pain, Jaime offers a poignant insight into Daniel's life, his struggles with mental health, and his tragic encounter with fentanyl. As he takes us through his personal tragedy, Jaime also shares how he founded VOID: Victims of Illicit Drugs, a beacon of hope aiming to spread awareness and prevent similar tragedies in other families. Join us as we explore Jaime's tireless efforts to fight against fentanyl poisoning.Special thanks to our sponsor, Subsplash! You can find our more about one of our favorite ministry tools at Real Life Church at http://subsplash.com/simpleResourcesEpisode TranscriptStop the Void WebsiteDead on Arrival Documentary

Join in as I sit down with Dave Stone, a veteran in the world of church ministry. Growing up as a pastor's kid led him to Cincinnati Bible College, where he majored in preaching and practical ministry. After that, he worked under the leadership of Wayne Smith and Brewster McLeod at Southland Christian Church where he would later become the lead pastor. Dave doesn't shy away from reflecting on his faith and examining how his father's consistency in his faith played a significant role in his life.We also had the chance to talk about the ups and downs of church leadership, from Dave sharing his insights on crafting a sermon and presenting it with a little sleight of hand to handling criticism with grace. Dave's tenure as the lead pastor brought him face-to-face with this reality of leadership. His advice on how to handle negativity and how he transformed a potentially destructive experience into a positive one is food for thought. Dave's humor and honesty make this episode a must-listen for any believer or leader navigating similar challenges. You'll want to tune in for a conversation that's as honest and humorous as it is enlightening.Special thanks to our sponsor, Subsplash! You can find our more about one of our favorite ministry tools at Real Life Church at http://subsplash.com/simpleResourcesEpisode Transcript

Ever dreamt a dream only to be told, "that dream isn't for you"? My guest today, Wade Joye, knows this feeling all too well. Co-founder of Elevation Worship and author of the book 'This Dream Is Not For You', Wade shares his journey of dreams shattered, only to discover new hopes in God. His book, birthed from the pain of dreams deferred, offers an enlightening perspective on how setbacks can pivot our hearts towards God. Drawing from David's story, Wade unfolds how we can refocus our dreams as parts of God's grand narrative. We also touch on the practice of pivoting our hearts daily to ensure Christ remains the core of our dreams. Wade's wisdom is not just a testimony to his journey but a guidepost for us all to navigate God leading us to a different season in our lives.No conversation with Wade is complete without discussing Elevation Worship. Wade sheds light on the influence Pastor Steven Furtick had on his journey and the creative process behind some of the most loved Elevation Worship songs. Join me in this rich dialogue with Wade Joy as we unravel dreams, worship and the art of keeping our hearts tethered to God.Special thanks to our sponsor, Subsplash! You can find our more about one of our favorite ministry tools at Real Life Church at http://subsplash.com/simpleResourcesEpisode TranscriptConnect with WadeWade Joye's WebsiteInstagramFacebookThreadsYouTubeThis Dream is Not For You by Wade JoyeDreamers and Disciples Podcast

We've got a great conversation ahead with the dynamic and visionary Ashley Wooldridge, senior pastor of Christ Church of the Valley in Phoenix. Ashley’s story takes us from his humble beginnings in small-town Arizona to becoming the shepherd of a thriving church family of 40,000 souls. His leadership philosophy, which hinges on simplicity, is driven by a passion to transform the church into the world's best-led organization.Maybe you're listening and you feel like you're in the middle of a waiting season. Ashley lends some insight into that experience from the lives of biblical figures such as David, Nehemiah, Daniel, Jesus, and Paul. We look at how those waiting seasons can shape us into the people God wants us to be. We'll also have a chance to talk through what it's like leading from the second chair, the potency of teamwork in leadership, and share some simple ways to apply these principles. Listen in to gain insights on leadership, spiritual growth, and how to maximize impact in your church and beyond.Special thanks to our sponsor, Subsplash! You can find our more about one of our favorite ministry tools at Real Life Church at http://subsplash.com/simpleResourcesEpisode TranscriptConnect with AshleyInstagramYouTubeChrist Church of the Valley's WebsiteRelated EpisodesEpisode 256: Lane Jones Makes Leading from the Second Chair Simple

If you've been tracking with us over the last couple of weeks, we have been prepping to launch our journey through The Story. We're doing this at several different campuses and churches all across the United States. So, I wanted to take this episode and guide you through a chapter of the book. We'll take a closer look at the stories of Cain and Abel, and Noah. More than that, we'll talk through how to bring The Story into your day to day life by habit stacking your morning reading and prayer routine with preparation for small group discussions.Don't miss out on this enriching journey to usher God into every facet of your life. If you want to join all of us going through The Story together, you can get the book directly from Randy Frazee's website, on Amazon, and anywhere else you purchase books. And leave a comment below to let me know how going through The Story has been for you.Special thanks to our sponsor, Subsplash! You can find our more about one of our favorite ministry tools at Real Life Church at http://subsplash.com/simple

I got to have an enlightening conversation with Randy Frazee, a seasoned pastor, author, and leader with a 34-year-long career. Randy, together with Max Lucado wrote The Story, a novel-like presentation of the Bible to help people engage with the Bible in an accessible way. We also shared the process of building a community around a Bible study and looked at the importance of accountability.The conversation doesn't stop at community-building. We also uncover the power of the Hebrew day planner as a tool for holistic health and well-being. And for the golf lovers, prepare for some great conversations about the spiritual lessons we've drawn from the sport, and a new podcast on the way. I hope for everyone listening that you will walk away with a fresh perspective on how to foster deeper connections within your community and extend your church activities beyond Sunday service.Special thanks to our sponsor, Subsplash! You can find more about one of our favorite ministry tools at Real Life Church at http://subsplash.com/simpleResources:Episode TranscriptAbout The StoryConnect with RandyInstagramFacebookRandy's Website

What's your favorite story of all time? It could be a Tom Clancy or Stephen King novel, or maybe your favorite book from childhood. It amazes me the way that stories, from Batman to Star Wars, captivate people so profoundly. What if it's not just a matter of entertainment, but ties into a grander narrative - one that encompasses even the seemingly boring aspects of our lives? Well, today on Simple Faith, we'll take a look at some of my favorite stories and dig into this concept, exploring the fundamental elements of storytelling - the hero, the villain, the guide, and the goal - and how they relate to the ultimate story being told throughout human history, starting from the Garden of Eden. Special thanks to our sponsor, Subsplash! You can find our more about one of our favorite ministry tools at Real Life Church at http://subsplash.com/simple.Resources:Episode Transcript

Ever wonder what it takes to foster growth in a modern church, especially in a post-pandemic world? Then you'll want to join me for a real engaging conversation with Rich Birch, a church growth expert. Rich and I delve into the nitty gritty, discussing everything from the importance of communication within church ministries, to adapting the methods of the Attractional Church Movement in an evolving spiritual landscape. We examine the unique balance of roles within the church, and how to optimize the length of a message during services. The conversation gets extra interesting when we talk about fostering an 'invite culture,' a practice that has taken on a new level of importance since the onset of the pandemic. And of course, we couldn't leave out the significant connection between a robust volunteer culture and church growth.Rich also shares some of his favorite resources for spiritual growth. Get ready to challenge your perspectives and be inspired by this candid conversation. And be sure to share it with a friend or two!Special thanks to Subsplash for sponsoring this episode.ResourcesEpisode TranscriptConnect with RichTwitterUnseminary InstagramUnseminary FacebookUnseminary Website

I got to sit down with Pastor Matt Piland, a leader, family man, and Executive Pastor of the fast-growing Bethlehem Church. Drawing on his unique journey from Louisiana to the pulpit, Matt unravels the power of leadership coaching and how it has fostered his growth as a church leader. It was great to hear his insights on his responsibilities as an Executive Pastor, his camaraderie with the Lead Pastor, and the qualities he prioritizes in his Campus Pastors.The conversation takes an interesting turn as we look at the dynamics of leadership within the church and the importance of communication, mutual respect, and avoiding bitterness on your team. We also get a chance to explore church growth post-pandemic and how we can measure growth in an era where more people are attending church online. If you're curious about how to help your church grow or about leadership coaching can help you grow, then this is the episode for you.Special thanks to our sponsor for the month and one of our favorite ministry tools at Real Life Church, Subsplash, the first engagement platform for churches.ResourcesEpisode TranscriptConnect with MattInstagramA clip from Matt's most recent message.Bethlehem ChurchLeadership Alone Isn’t Enough: 40 Devotions to Strengthen Your Soul by Dan ReilandEpisode 216: Leadership legend Dan Reiland makes culture simple

I had a chance to meet Kevin Lloyd, a pastor from North Carolina, and I knew I wanted him to join me on the podcast. Kevin shares his journey to becoming an executive pastor and provides insights on navigating leadership challenges while developing faith. He also opens up about the spiritual disciplines he adopted to help him stay grounded and connected to God during his transition. Kevin stresses the importance of godly relationships and finding rest. He also opens up about his experiences of loneliness while moving into his new role.We shift gears to dig into how Emotional Intelligence (EQ) can impact leadership. We explore the challenges of helping someone with low EQ, figuring out how to tread the fine line between brutal honesty and empathy. I share my strategy of using performance evaluations to initiate the conversation and encourage growth, and touch on valuable resources like Aaron Burke's podcast series on EQ and the significance of tapping into someone's teachability.Special thanks to our sponsor for the month and one of our favorite ministry tools at Real Life Church, Subsplash, the first engagement platform for churches.ResourcesEpisode TranscriptConnect with KevinInstagramLifePoint ChurchCourageous PastorsThe Synergist by Les McKeownThe Emotionally Healthy Leader (Made for More Leadership Podcast)b

Brian Dodd is back with some powerful insights from his new book, Mighty: Seven Skills You Need to Move from Pandemic to Progress, based on his popular blog posts from 2021. Listen in as he discusses how churches and small groups can leverage production, protection, perception, and passion for discipleship and leadership growth.We also we take a look at church growth in a post-COVID world and the common threads that show up in successful churches. Hear how authenticity and genuine faith are driving church attendance and how pastors can connect with their congregations in this new landscape. Of course, it's not a Brian Dodd episode without some valuable lessons from sports, so we share lessons on leadership from the KC Chiefs' journey to the AFC Championship and a Super Bowl win, as well as valuable travel tips and the importance of kindness. Listen in, leave a comment, and let us know how you're finding success post-COVID.Special thanks to our sponsor for the month and one of our favorite ministry tools at Real Life Church, Subsplash, the first engagement platform for churches.ResourcesBrian Dodd on Leadership WebsiteThe Pursuit of Service PodcastMighty: Seven Skills You Need to Move from Pandemic to Progress by Brian DoddConnect with Brian:FacebookTwitterLinkedInInstagramListen to past episodes with Brian here:Bonus Episode: What Football Can Teach Us about Leadership with Brian Dodd & Mark WeigtEpisode 198: How to make learning leadership simple with Brian DoddEpisode 234: Brian Dodd makes the college football playoffs simple

This week, we welcome back bestselling author and pastor Mark Batterson. It was great having him on the podcast to talk about his new book, which captures life's essence in three simple words. And we like simplicity here. As the conversation unfolds, we learn more about Mark's battle with cancer and the profound impact it had on his life. He also delves into his journey as a blogger and author, his approach to building a community, and his latest book that captures life's essence in three simple words. You'll be inspired by how he's managed to maintain a positive attitude and keep his faith strong through life's challenges. So, tune in to be part of this enlightening and thought-provoking discussion with Mark Batterson.Special thanks to our sponsor for the month and one of our favorite ministry tools at Real Life Church, Subsplash, the first engagement platform for churches.ResourcesEpisode TranscriptMark Batterson's WebsitePlease, Sorry, Thanks by Mark BattersonConnect with MarkFacebookInstagramTwitter

It's been an honor serving Real Life Church for the past 20 years. Join me and my lifelong friend Michael Hinton as we reflect on two decades of ministry at Real Life Church. Michael and I share our journey, discussing the highs, the lows, and the faithfulness of God throughout it all. Michael and I also explore the wisdom we've gathered from mentors and how it has shaped our ministry work. We discuss the importance of asking questions, taking risks, and being wise stewards. We share insights on navigating the risks and wisdom involved in making major decisions. We also discuss how balancing roles as a pastor, husband, and father have taught us the importance of prioritizing quality time at home. This episode is packed with valuable lessons we’ve learned along the way, from leadership challenges to the power of prayer. So, join us as we reminisce, reflect, and share wisdom from 20 years of ministry at Real Life Church.Special thanks to our sponsor for the month and one of our favorite ministry tools at Real Life Church, Subsplash: The first engagement platform for churches.

Ever wondered how to bridge the gap between where you are now and where you want to be? Join us for this episode of Simple Faith with our guest, former pastor and current executive coach, Joseph King Barkley. It's great to have him back on the podcast as we talk about how to make transformation simple. In my chat with Joseph, we take a closer look at the power of mindset and commitment.Joseph brings his expertise to the table, sharing his insights on phenomenology and introducing new ways of seeing our circumstances. He also introduces an interesting concept that challenges us to go past our limits and accomplish more. Finally, we talk about the unique role pastoral leadership plays in shaping the spiritual growth of a congregation. Listen in to this week's episode and share in the comments how you might be inspired to go on your own path of transformation and growth.Special thanks to our sponsor for the month and one of our favorite ministry tools at Real Life Church, Subsplash, the first engagement platform for churches.ResourcesEpisode TranscriptJoseph Barkley’s WebsiteConnect with JosephInstagramTwitterLinkedInTikTok

I'm thrilled to be joined by Darren Whitehead, an extraordinary mind in the church world and founding pastor of Church of the City in Nashville. Darren shares his unique journey into ministry sparked by an unexpected visa error. We also dive into how Darren started Church of the City, how he uses humor to connect with people from the stage, and we reflect on his book Holy Roar, written with Chris Tomlin. In this technology-driven world, Chris and Darren write about the power of worship – and the profound impact of seven Hebrew words used to express our adoration for God inside and outside the weekend service. From the role of millennials in the church to the importance of 'digital fasting', this episode is packed with some great insights. Listen in and share with a friend, because you won't want to miss this one!ResourcesEpisode TranscriptChurch of the City in Nashville, TNHoly Roar: 7 Words That Will Change The Way You Worship by Chris Tomlin and Darren WhiteheadConnect with DarrenInstagramFacebookTwitter

This season has seen a lot of job transitions. With tech layoffs and the great resignation, people have been seeking the perfect fit for them professionally. So what happens once you find that job and transition over? Adam Bishop knows a little about that and is on the podcast to talk about his experience with a job transition. I ask him about stepping into his new role at NewHope Church, and about how to manage change through transitions. We also talk about our experience with Courageous Pastors, a great leadership coaching organization.If you’ve got a job transition you’re navigating or you’re just considering what that could look like for you, listen in to our conversation here.Special thanks to our sponsor for the month, Subsplash, the first engagement platform for churches.ResourcesEpisode TranscriptCourageous PastorsNewHope Church Connect with AdamFacebookTwitterInstagram

Two of my favorite people are on the podcast today: Pastors Mike Breaux and Gene Appel. If you’ve ever looked at your teaching calendar and been overwhelmed or unsure of where to start, then this is the episode for you. We dug into what building out a teaching calendar is like for a pastor, what to consider when building it out, and how use your teaching calendar as a tool to better care for your congregation.Between Mike and Gene, they have so many years of pastoral knowledge to share, so you won’t want to miss this episode. Special thanks to our sponsor for the month, Saga Mental Health and Relationship Centers.ResourcesEpisode TranscriptConnect with Gene AppelFacebookTwitterConnect with Mike BreauxYouTube

All of us wanna pray and be better at prayer. We just don't always know what to say. We panic when someone calls on us to pray in our small groups or at family gatherings. Maybe we even pull out one of the early prayers we memorized in Sunday School.But what if we could ask for something so much more? What if prayer could be so much more than praying for a good day or safe travels, but a real, open conversation with God?In today's episode, I share the five prayers you can pray to change your day. Listen in and let me know which one resonated with you in the comments.Special thanks to our sponsor for the month, Saga Mental Health and Relationship Centers.ResourcesAfter Amen by Rusty George (Book, Audiobook, and Pastor Resources)1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Today, I wanted to share a few of my favorite books with you. These are books that really impacted the way I looked at my faith. I hope each recommendation could be helpful to your mind and soul this summer no matter where you are in your faith journey. Now, all the books mentioned in this episode are available as audiobooks as well. So if you're on the go all the time or if the idea of reading brings back memories of high school summer reading lists, trust that you're in good shape. Listen in to this week's Simple Faith to hear a bit more about why I picked these specific books, and let me know your thoughts in the comments.Special thanks to our sponsor for the month, Saga Mental Health and Relationship Centers.ResourcesEpisode TranscriptInvitation to a Journey: A Roadmap for Spiritual Formation by M. Robert Mulholland, Jr.Winning the War in your Mind by Pastor Craig GroeschelIn the Name of Jesus by Henri NouwenMove by Brian Tome

Hey listeners! We are doing something new, let's call it simplifying! Moving forward, we are renaming this podcast, Simple Faith. Why, because that's the goal! To help make faith simple. Simple Faith is a chance for us to give more focus to making faith simple. And there was no better episode to start this off with than this one.Kyle Idleman is here to help us figure out how to follow God when our way isn't working. As a matter of fact, he wrote a whole book about it. Kyle and I dig into the process of writing that book and the lessons Kyle learned himself about following God. We also talk about how to slow down and let go of the pressure to perform so we can make room for a greater connection to Jesus. You can find Kyle's new book, When Your Way Isn't Working, here and anywhere else you can purchase books.Special thanks to our sponsor, Saga Mental Health and Relationship Centers.ResourcesEpisode TranscriptKyle Idleman's Website

There were some incredible guests this month on the podcast. I got to sit with not one but two executive pastors who had some great insight on what it's like to lead from the second chair. Mark Mears walked us through his marketing tips and how to grow from a leader to a legacy builder. May was also Mental Health Awareness month, and just in time I got the chance to talk with two incredible individuals about mental health: Bryan Hixson, a neuroscientist and Chad Veach, pastor of ZOE Church. I'd love to hear from you about your favorite episode from the month in the comments. You can find the full episodes and resources from this month below:Episode 255: Jim Sheldon makes Executive Pastoring simpleEpisode 256: Lane Jones makes leading from the second chair simpleEpisode 257: Bryan Hixson makes the brain simpleEpisode 258: Mark Mears makes marketing simpleEpisode 259: Chad Veach makes authenticity and overcoming anxiety simpleSpecial thanks to our sponsor, Saga Mental Health and Relationship Centers. If you're looking for support you on your journey to health, check them out.

It’s the last day of Mental Health Awareness Month and I’m so glad to have Chad Veach on the podcast this week. Chad is an author, speaker, and lead pastor of ZOE Church in Los Angeles. Chad shared some of his stories as a founding pastor and a father. We also got to talk about his new book, Worried about Everything Because I Pray About Nothing. But what he had to say about authenticity and overcoming anxiety is worth the price of admission alone. I know that you’ll be able to get some great insight from my conversation with Chad. Listen in and let me know what you think in the comments below.Special thanks to the Saga Center for Mental Health for sponsoring this episode!HighlightsChad’s Story - 2:08How Chad got started in ministry.Chad’s experience parenting his daughter with a rare brain condition.Becoming a pastor when you were a pastor’s kid.Prayer as the antidote to worry - 10:10How ZOE Church began.The inspiration behind Chad’s new book.Chad’s rhythms for prayer and routine for podcasting.Overcoming imposter syndrome - 19:31Chad’s perspective on imposter syndrome in leadersChad’s own experience navigating impostor syndrome.“Be careful of the motive in your heart…”ResourcesEpisode TranscriptChad Veach’s WebsiteLeadership Lean In with Chad Veach - YouTube/PodcastWorried about Everything Because I Pray About Nothing by Chad VeachZOE Church

If you’ve ever supersized a Pepsi, ordered a piece of cheesecake from the Cheesecake factory, or enjoyed a Schlotsky’s sandwich, then you have my good friend Mark Mears to thank for that. Mark has been a chief marketing officer for companies like Pepsi, Cheesecake Factory and Schlotzky's Deli. And he’s on the podcast this week to talk about how he got there as well as his new book The Purposeful Growth Revolution: 4 Ways to Grow from Leader to Legacy Builder. Listen in as we dig into the marketing skills you can keep in mind for your organization, the mistakes to avoid, and how to figure out your purpose.Special thanks to the Saga Center for Mental Health for sponsoring this episode.About Mark - 02:17How he got into marketingBe the Best Tree You Can Be - 08:40The fig tree story that shifted Mark’s perspectiveA fig tree can’t be a maple tree…Serving the whole person through LEAF - 25:16Mark shares a bit about the heart behind LEAF.Mark shares about his new book.ResourcesEpisode TranscriptMark Mears’ WebsiteThe Purposeful Growth Revolution: 4 Ways to Grow from Leader to Legacy Builder by Mark MearsSeeds 4 Growth #7 - Mark MearsMark Mears’ LinkedIn

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, so it seemed fitting to have a brain expert join me on Leading Simple. Bryan Hixson leads an incredible research organization focused on understanding how the brain works. How our brain functions can dramatically affect the way we lead and the way we live. It influences how quickly we can bounce back from difficulties and how easily we can let things go. I sat down with Bryan to learn more about why that is and came out of our time with my mind blown. You won't want to miss our conversation. Special thanks to the Saga Center for Mental Health for sponsoring this episode.HighlightsAbout Bryan Hixson - 02:10A little about Bryan HixsonWhy do we call it Mental Health?What is a brain map?How does stress affect our brains? - 10:49The pandemic’s effect on our brain health.The value of in person connection.Thoughts around the current mental health epidemic.Healing our Brains - 23:12Bryan explains how our brains function.What are some helpful tools for us to help our brains?ResourcesEpisode TranscriptBrain Performance Centers of Southern California - website

Lane Jones is one of the co-founders of North Point Ministries, an incredible church with multiple campuses across the Atlanta area. I’ve gotten to know and learn from him over the past five years and it’s great to have him on the podcast to share his insights with you. He led along Andy Stanley as they started and grew North Point to what it is today. Lane shares his experiences from the early days, the lessons he learned about leadership over three decades, and what’s next for him in the coming years.Special thanks to the Saga Center for Mental Health for sponsoring this episode.HighlightsLane’s Story - 02:36About Lane JonesMinistry beginnings in AtlantaThree Decades of North Point - 12:47What the early days at North Point were like.Gaining notoriety as a ministryNavigating exponential growthNorth Point todayWhat’s Next? - 43:11What does the next decade look like for Lane?How to support leaders from the second seat

People hear the title Executive Pastor and wonder what that title actually means? Well, my guest Jim Sheldon sheds some light on what that role has meant for him as he helps lead Mission Church, a church plant in Ventura, California. He also gives some background about what it was like for him moving from a corporate setting to into ministry (including a role as a police chaplain).Maybe you've considered transitioning from a corporate role to a role in ministry. We got to touch on that with guests like Jodi Tonarelli (listen to her perspective on being an executive pastor here) and Debbie Robert (listen to her story here). And Jim's story is another one to hear if that's a question you're asking yourself. I think you'll get a lot from his experiences guiding staff and his own self discovery in this role. I think you're going to be really blessed by what Jim has to say.Special thanks to the Saga Center for Mental Health for sponsoring this episode.HighlightsAbout Jim - 01:35Jim’s early yearsMoving from the Marketplace to MinistryWhat is an Executive Pastor? - 10:23What does an executive pastor’s day look like in a church plant setting?What does it mean to develop people?How has Mission Church changed since day one?“Tell me more…” - 29:34How to work alongside a visionary leader.Jim’s role in leading staff at Mission.Jim’s work as a police chaplain.ResourcesEpisode TranscriptMission Church Website

April was an exciting month as we sat down with with Jim Wallace as he reflected on a new chapter in his life and Debbie Robert came from behind the scenes to share her experience as an executive assistant. Roy Ratcliffe helped us look at grace through his eyes as he detailed his time with the infamous Jefferey Dahmer, and Bjorn Bjornsson helped to make therapy a little more accessible. If you hear something in this month's Best of that stood out to you you can find the full episodes and resources from this month below:Episode 250: Detective Jim Wallace processes the crucifixion crime sceneEpisode 251: Debbie Robert makes Executive Assisting simpleEpisode 252: The Pastor who baptized Dahmer makes grace simpleEpisode 253: Bjorn Bjornsson makes therapy simpleSpecial thanks to our sponsor over at Saga Mental Health and Relationship Centers.

My guest for the week is Bjorn Bjornsson from Saga Center based in California. He was previously in ministry back in Iceland before becoming a licensed marriage and family therapist. Bjorn sits down with me and talks about his early experiences as a pastor, the need for mental health support in the church, and how you can find a counselor who is the right fit for you.Therapy can feel like a taboo word for so many people, particularly in the church. Going to therapy used to be seen as a sign of weakness. But over the years, people have become a lot more open about sharing their own experiences with mental health and finding the support they need.If you’ve heard me speak on a Sunday, maybe you’ve heard me talk a little about my own journey with anxiety and mental health. Or you’ve heard me talk with previous guests about their own journeys (like in this episode with Dan Broyles, LMFT) If you’re feeling a little skeptical about therapy, or you’ve been wondering where to even start, then take a listen to this episode and share it with a friend. The Saga Center is our sponsor for this episode, and I’m so grateful to them for it. You can find out more about Saga, Bjorn, and the work that they do in the resources below.HighlightsAbout Bjorn & Saga Center - 01:54Bjorn’s beginnings in IcelandHow Saga came to beMental Health in the past few years - 13:03Finding a Christian CounselorNavigating the mental health epidemic of the past few yearsBuilding trust againFinding the right support - 26:42Finding the courage to get support.The unique pressures being in ministry has on mental healthResources (links to books mentioned, websites, etc)Episode TranscriptConnect with the Saga CenterSaga Center websiteFacebook

You might be familiar with the name Jeffery Dahmer. In the nineties, the world was horrified to learn about his crimes. He was even the subject of a recent Netflix series. His name has become synonymous with the most extreme, the worst of the worst, and maybe somebody beyond the grace of God. So how does one forgive what seems to be the unforgivable? And what is it like to be in the position of a pastor who is asked to baptize someone as infamous as a serial killer? Well, it was a surprise to learn that Jefferey Dahmer gave his life to Christ during his time in prison. And I had a chance to talk with the man who baptized Jeffrey Dahmer, a pastor named Roy Ratcliff. Roy shares his experience with Jefferey and the incredible grace in his story of faith.You may know someone who is wrestling with the idea of God’s grace. Maybe you’re struggling to give grace to yourself, and you don’t know where to start. If that lands for you, listen to today’s episode and share it with someone you think might want to hear this.Special thanks to our sponsor over at Saga Counseling Center.HighlightsThe Backstory - 02:33About RoyHow he came to meet Jeffrey Dahmer.Why did he do the crimes? - 15:25Roy shares his own thoughts about why Jeffey Dahmer committed those crimesWhat led Jeffery to want to be baptized?What was the day of his baptism like?God’s Grace and Forgiveness - 33:08Did Jeffrey Dahmer feel remorse?How did Roy see God differently after his experience with Jeffrey?What does Jeffrey’s story mean for us?ResourcesEpisode TranscriptDark Journey Deep Grace: Jeffrey Dahmer's Story of Faith by Roy RatcliffPhoto by Jackson David on Unsplash

Well, today, you’re in for something special. You get to hear first hand what it’s like to be an executive assistant from my good friend, Debbie Robert. Debbie is the Executive Director of Administration at Real Life Church and has a wealth of wisdom to share from her time here. Debbie gives her perspective on how she navigated rapid growth, difficult situations, and working alongside me. She also highlights some of the differences between working in the marketplace versus working in ministry and lays out what it takes to find a great executive assistant. (One way is through one of our sponsors this year, BELAY Solutions). It’s been an honor having Debbie as a part of the team, and I really think you’re gonna have a lot to learn from what she has to say in our conversation.Special thanks to the Saga Center for Mental Health for sponsoring this month’s episode.Highlights About Debbie - 2:43Debbie’s life before RLCThe trip that changed Debbie’s whole world.Working in the medical field versus working in ministry.Serving God, Serving your Ministry - 11:30Debbie’s strategy for navigating difficulties in ministry.What makes a great administrative assistant?Tricks of the Trade - 24:20Debbie’s tricks of the assistant trade.What every new administrative assistant should know.What is the greatest joy of the job?ResourcesEpisode Transcript

It's great to have one of our favorite guests, cold case detective and author J. Warner Wallace back on the podcast. He's joined us before to make the case for Easter and the case for the resurrection. This time around, we talk about his upcoming book, Jesus' impact on the world at large and how being in a different season of life has called Jim to different things. Jim offers some incredible wisdom and insights that I know you'll want to hear, so listen in to this week's Leading Simple.Special Thanks to the Saga Center for Mental Health for sponsoring this month's episodes!ResourcesEpisode Transcript Previous J. Warner Wallace EpisodesEpisode 104: Understanding the Resurrection with J Warner WallaceEpisode 193: The Importance of Easter and the Case for the Resurrection with J Warner Wallace

From figuring out how to deal with content overload to better understanding the future of church to figuring out why God cares about who we sleep with and rounding it out with the excitement of a new Dodger baseball season. I've gotta say, March was an incredible month for Leading Simple. It was great having each guest on the show this month. If you hear something that stood out to you and want to know more, then you can find the full episodes from this month here:Episode 244: Brad Lomenick makes navigating content overload simpleEpisode 246: David Kinnaman makes the future of church simpleEpisode 247: Sam Allberry answers why God cares who we sleep withEpisode 248: MLB Scout Marty Lamb makes this season for the Dodgers Simple ----------------------------------------------------------------Special thanks to our sponsor, BELAY!If you're a church leader trying to do it all, you don't have to anymore. BELAY’s modern church staffing solutions have been helping busy church leaders delegate important the details for over a decade. And just for the incredible people who listen to Leading Simple, we partnered with BELAY to bring you a church leadership toolkit with some of the most essential resources to support you in your role. You can download the resource here.

It's springtime, so you know what that means: It's time for Dodger baseball! It's an honor to have Marty Lamb back on the podcast. We spend some time talking shop about what to look out for this upcoming Baseball season. With new players, new rules, and new prospects, there is a lot to talk about. We also look back on the legacy of the late Dodgers manager Tommy Lasorda. And if you've never heard of Refuge for Women, Marty gives an overview of the incredible work they do to support women recovering from human trafficking. Special thanks to our friends over at BELAY Solutions for sponsoring this week’s episode. You can access a free leadership resource here at belaysolutions.com/rusty. Or you can text RUSTY to 55123 to claim this exclusive offer.HighlightsNew Season, New Scouts - 2:33Preparing for a new baseball season.Who's got the best player prospects this year?Marty's shares stories about Tommy LasordaWhat does Dodger Baseball Look Like This Season? - 08:29Marty talks about the future of Dodger BaseballMarty's thoughts on some major moves from the minor league.Unpacking new rules in baseballRefuge for Women - 39:47What is Refuge for Women?ResourcesEpisode TranscriptEpisode 210: Dodgers scout Marty Lamb makes spotting talent simpleConnect with MartyTwitterInstagramThe Official Dodger’s WebsiteRefuge for Women's Website - Refuge for WomenSurvivor Made - Products made by those housed by Refuge for Women.I AM - Easter Devotional

There are no more controversial issues in our culture right now than the issue of sex and identity. We’re having those conversations at Real Life Church in our series Sex&Theology. And last month on the podcast, we got to hear Becket Cook’s experience (you can take a listen to his episode here)This month, you’re in for another insightful episode. Sam Allberry is a pastor, speaker, and author of several books, including Why Does God Care Who I Sleep With? We get to sit down and work through talk through the theology behind the Christian sexual ethic and how to approach these conversations in real time with friends, family, and loved ones. I know you’ll get a lot out of this episode.Special thanks to BELAY Solutions for sponsoring this week’s episode. And you can access a free leadership resource here at belaysolutions.com/rusty. Or you can text RUSTY to 55123 to claim this exclusive offer.HighlightsSam’s Calling - 2:56About Sam AllberryThe story behind “Why Does God Care Who I Sleep With?”Wrestling with the Christian Sexual Ethic - 13:17How the Christian sexual ethic has been viewed through history.Understanding God’s purpose for sexWhat does this look like in real life? - 24:56How can the church love the LGBTQ+ community better?How to have conversations with your kids about their gender and sexual identity.Sam shares his personal experiences.ResourcesEpisode TranscriptWhy Does God Care Who I Sleep With? By Sam AllberrySex&Theology Resources

When you think of organizational research, the names that most readily come to mind are Gallup, Pew, and Barna Group. We've gotten to hear from Savannah Kimberlin as we talked through what a post-COVID world would look like (you can listen to the episode here). And it’s an honor to have David Kinnaman, CEO of Barna Group on the podcast this week. David helps shed light on what the data says about the future of the Church and shares his perspective on some of the trends we’re seeing in churches today. David was also gracious enough to share his personal experience navigating major life transitions and overcoming difficulties along the way.Special thanks to BELAY Solutions for sponsoring this week’s episode. And you can access a free leadership resource here at belaysolutions.com/rusty. Or you can text RUSTY to 55123 to claim this exclusive offer.About David and Barna Group- 02:41David’s early daysBeing a public pastor as CEO of BarnaAbout about Barna GroupThe Future of the Church - 10:05Questions we should ask ourselves when we look at the data.Confronting our own assumptions about ChristianityDavid breaks down church trends.Transition, Grief, and Loss - 49:58The power of suffering.Learning from those who’ve suffered greatly.ResourcesEpisode TranscriptBarna Group’s Website2 Corinthians 1:3

Information overload in this day and age is a real thing. And there is no silver bullet to make all the information make sense for how we lead. So how do we sort through it all? Who better to join me for this episode than leadership consultant and content curator Brad Lomenick? Brad shares his tips for getting the most out of the wealth of content available and shares some of his favorite podcast recommendations. We also talk about how leaders can leverage their influence for a more intentional impact on the people they lead. I enjoyed my time with Brad and I know you’ll enjoy hearing his insights.Special thanks to BELAY Solutions for sponsoring this week’s episode! I partnered with BELAY to bring church leaders a free resource that I think will really make a difference. You can access the resource here at belaysolutions.com/rusty.ResourcesConnect with BradTwitterInstagramFacebookThe H3 Leadership PodcastH3 Leadership by Brad Lomenick (book)

Leading Simple has had some incredible guests this February. If you've got 15 minutes and want to hear some of the highlights from each episode, this is for you. If as you're listening something jumps out at you and you want to dig a little deeper, you can find the full episodes from this month here:Episode 239: Becket Cook makes identity simple.Episode 240: Ben Connelly tells us to stop asking for forgiveness.Episode 241: Gary McIntosh makes solo pastoring simpleEpisode 242: Brian Carpenter cures burnout through fly fishing.Special thanks to our sponsor, BELAY!If you're a church leader trying to do it all, you don't have to anymore. BELAY’s modern church staffing solutions have been helping busy church leaders delegate important the details for over a decade. And just for the incredible people who listen to Leading Simple, we partnered with BELAY to bring you a church leadership toolkit with some of the most essential resources to support you in your role. You can download the resource here.

If there’s one thing I’m passionate about, it’s supporting leaders. And Brian Carpenter shares that same passion. That’s why he started the Refuge Foundation and why we love sending groups to the incredible experiences that they create. The Refuge Foundation sets up experiences where leaders can not only grow but recover from the pains of leadership. Burnout is more prevalent in ministry and the statistics are stunning. Now, we’ve talked with one of the board members of the Refuge Foundation about how to avoid burnout (you can listen to my conversation with Lance Witt here). And it was great getting another perspective on how to prevent it. Brian and I sit down and dig into his heart behind the foundation, his experiences in ministry, and how fly fishing with friends can be one of the most restoring things you can do.Special thanks to BELAY Solutions for sponsoring this week’s episode! You can learn more about how they support pastors and leaders at belaysolutions.com/rusty.Resources (links to books mentioned, websites, etc)You can reach Brian at [email protected] Website