Church Leadership Lab

In this episode, we sit down with Tyler Harden, church growth consultant and co-founder of Firm Foundations Marketing. We explore what growing churches have in common and the practical patterns that drive healthy, sustainable growth. In this conversation, we discuss: Defining genuine church growth beyond numbers Designing a guest experience, not just atmosphere Maintaining an external, community-f...

In this episode, we sit down with Carl Barnhill, creative entrepreneur, motion designer, author, and founder of Church Visuals. We explore the power of visual media, church marketing, and essential strategies for the future of ministry communication. In this conversation, we discuss: The purpose behind church visuals Balancing excellence and authenticity Using visuals for discipleship and outreach...

In this episode, Kendall Conner and Jess Moore offer practical encouragement for ministry leaders who want to create thriving volunteer teams.  They dive into actionable strategies and heart-level insights to help you keep church volunteers engaged, energized, and excited to serve—no matter the season. In this conversation, we discuss: Helping volunteers see purpose in their roles Recruiting throu...

In this episode, we sit down with Mark Lebrun, founder of Digital Influencer Co and trusted voice helping leaders and organizations grow their online influence. We explore redefining digital influence for ministry leaders and how churches can leverage technology for greater impact. In this conversation, we discuss: Reaching people beyond church walls Building authentic digital influence Practical...

In this episode, we sit down with Kira Brown, senior product leader at Ministry Brands, church software expert, and children's director at her local church. We explore how AI can support ministry work without sacrificing authentic, personal connection. In this conversation, we discuss: Benefits and challenges of AI in ministry Keeping the human touch in church tech Ways AI can extend sermon i...

In this episode, we sit down with Chip Pugh, chaplain for the Tennessee Titans, discipleship trainer, founder of Be1Mk1, and author. We explore how everyday people can be equipped to live on mission and make a tangible impact in their communities. In this conversation, we discuss: Chip’s journey from athlete to chaplain The heart behind Be One, Make One Practical discipleship in everyday life Unde...

In this episode, we sit down with Mac Lake, experienced church planter, leadership development expert, founder of Multiply Group, and author. We explore how intentional leadership development can multiply ministry leaders and create lasting impact within churches. In this conversation, we discuss: Building a leadership development pipeline The importance of relational investment Distinguishing lea...

In this episode, Kendall Conner and Jess Moore recap our recent Healthy Church Summit and some of the key takeaways from keynotes by Pastor Arthur James and Dr. Jason Young.  We reflect on key insights and actionable strategies focused on helping leaders avoid burnout and foster healthy ministry cultures. In this conversation, we discuss: Practical strategies to prevent ministry burnout The import...

In this episode, we sit down with Laura Howe, founder of Hope Made Strong, mental health clinician, and community development strategist. We explore the realities of burnout, boundaries, and mental health for ministry leaders and share practical ways to foster resilience. In this conversation, we discuss: Pressures unique to ministry leadership Recognizing and addressing compassion fatigue The imp...

In this episode, we sit down with Daniel Hall, creative technologist and digital ministry strategist based in Chattanooga, Tennessee. We explore how faith and technology intersect, and what church leaders need to know for the future of ministry. In this conversation, we discuss: Using tech for global ministry impact Embracing new tools without fear Engaging young leaders with innovation Discernmen...

In this episode, we sit down with Nicole Wight, Senior Director of Product Marketing at Ministry Brands, who brings over a decade of experience in digital transformation. She’s passionate about helping churches use simple, accessible giving tools that better serve their congregation. We dive into key insights from the 2026 Church Giving Report and strategies church leaders shouldn't ignore fo...

In this episode, we sit down with Toby Walters, founder of ChurchGear, author, podcast host, and church tech expert. We explore how churches can balance using modern technology while preserving the sacred elements of worship spaces. In this conversation, we discuss: Common tech mistakes in churches Creating distraction-free worship environments Affordable production solutions for any budget Blendi...

In this episode, we sit down with Tim Stevens, long-time church leader, author, leadership coach, and host of the Leading Smart podcast. We explore the long-term lessons learned from decades in ministry and what it takes to lead well for the long haul. In this conversation, we discuss: Starting with the end in mind Prioritizing people over processes The importance of calendar rhythms Evolving lead...

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 hope we have through Christ’s death and resurrection. And while this is one of the most meaningful weeks of the year, we also know it can be one of the busiest for ministry leaders. With extra services,...

In this episode, hosts Kendall Conner and Jessica Moore share a timely heart check for ministry leaders navigating the Easter season—helping you slow down, refocus, and lead well in the final stretch before Easter. In this conversation, we discuss: The pressure of Easter in church life Prioritizing spiritual rest over busyness Intentional time with God amid chaos Serving from a healthy heart postu...

In this episode, we sit down with Dustin Dozier, Teaching Pastor and Director of Next Steps at Upstate Church, coach, and author of the bestselling book "The Connected Church." We explore practical ways to move newcomers from first-time guests to fully connected members, building genuine relationships and a stronger church community. In this conversation, we discuss: The difference betwe...

In this episode, we sit down with Mark MacDonald, a church branding strategist and founder of Be Known for Something. We explore how churches can build a consistent communication rhythm that brings clarity to their messaging and helps them reach both their congregation and their community more effectively. In this conversation, we discuss: Reactive vs. intentional church communication Why consiste...

In this episode, we sit down with Tara Banks, worship pastor at Seacoast Church, author, and worship consultant. We explore what it takes to build a healthy worship team both on and off the stage, with practical insights for leaders at any church. In this conversation, we discuss: The heart behind healthy worship teams Signs of unhealthy team culture Staying spiritually connected as a leader Impor...

In this episode, we sit down with Steve Fogg, Melbourne-based digital strategist, pastor, and online campus leader passionate about helping churches maximize their digital outreach. We explore how churches can leverage digital tools to make a greater impact during Easter and beyond. In this conversation, we discuss: Key digital opportunities around Easter Google search trends and church visibility...

In this episode, hosts Kendall Conner and Jessica Moore explore practical strategies to prepare your church’s staff and volunteers for Easter, ensuring an impactful and joy-filled holiday weekend. In this conversation, we discuss: Early and positive Easter communication. Setting clear expectations for teams. Recruiting and onboarding new volunteers. Balancing service and spiritual care. Over-prepa...

In this episode, we sit down with Jonathan Howell from the Ministry Brands team who has spent more than a decade working with churches and nonprofits to implement accounting systems and steward their finances well. We explore practical tips for building healthy church accounting practices and overcoming common challenges. In this conversation, we discuss: The unique needs of church accounting Over...

In this episode, we sit down with Brad Lomenick, leadership strategist, author of H3 Leadership, and former president of the Catalyst Conference. We explore practical habits that help leaders become transformational and cultivate healthy church environments. In this conversation, we discuss: Building leadership one habit at a time The importance of humility, hunger, and hustle Self-awareness and t...

In this episode, we sit down with Ben Stapley, executive pastor, speaker, creative director, and church consultant with over 20 years of experience in leadership and communication. We explore practical strategies for planning a memorable Easter church service that truly connects with the community. In this conversation, we discuss: Welcoming first-time Easter guests Selecting impactful worship mus...

In this episode, we sit down with Greg Atkinson, entrepreneur, best-selling author, and church secret shopper with 30 years of experience in organizational leadership. We explore proven strategies for how churches can reach and keep first-time guests, moving them from visitors to engaged members. In this conversation, we discuss: The importance of a welcoming guest experience Secret shopper insigh...

In this episode, we sit down with Nicole Lucas, creative arts pastor, leadership coach, and founder of The Creative Level. We explore why clarity is essential for healthy church staffs and teams, and practical ways leaders can foster clear communication and thriving cultures. In this conversation, we discuss: Why clarity matters for church teams Spotting and fixing misalignment issues The role of...