Leading in the Gospel

Cary Schmidt and Kurt Skelly continue their conversation on gospel-shaped confrontation, walking through practical, biblical wisdom for handling hard conversations with grace, truth, and emotional maturity.

Cary and Kurt tackle the tough topic most leaders avoid: confrontation. They outline nine “pre-conversation” practices that keep hard talks redemptive, not explosive. As pastors, the aim is always gentle, truthful, Spirit-led conversations that restore people and protect the health of the whole church.

In this episode, Cary sits down with author Jonathan Williams to unpack one of the most debated and misunderstood passages in the Bible. See how Romans 9 must be read as part of God’s unfolding story: that His Word has not failed, His promises remain, and His heart is for all people. They highlight the dangers of misinterpreting Romans 9, the beauty of God’s consistent faithfulness, and the call f...

Cary and Andrew discuss practical and biblical ways to extend gospel invitations in church services—avoiding both manipulation and neglect—so that unbelievers consistently have a clear opportunity to respond to Christ.

Cary and Andrew get real about feeling overwhelmed in ministry! Together the name the internal and external causes and outline a gospel-shaped path forward built on identity in Christ, biblical (not escapist) optimism, and practical steps like honest review, wise counsel, and shared load.

Cary Schmidt sits down with Ethan Malachuk, pastor of Mount Greylock Baptist Church in MA, for a long-awaited conversation about bivocational ministry. Ethan shares his journey of pastoring while working in the secular world, reflecting on the unexpected blessings, challenges, and spiritual growth that come with this path. Drawing from biblical examples—particularly Paul’s ministry in Corinth, The...

Cary Schmidt is joined by Andrew Browning to discuss the often-overlooked tension between faithfully explaining the Bible and helping people apply it meaningfully to their lives. They explore what it means to grow in gospel-shaped application—not just giving listeners a to-do list, but pointing them to the Person and work of Jesus as the true source of lasting transformation. Through honest reflec...

In Part 2, Cary and Kurt continue their conversation on relational loss in ministry, this time focusing on gospel-shaped responses. Drawing from David’s experience with Saul, they discuss how to process betrayal, walk through grief, and move forward in faith. They encourage pastors and ministry leaders to respond with grace, forgive without expecting anything in return, and trust God’s sovereign w...

Cary Schmidt and Kurt Skelly dive into the difficult experience of “getting ghosted” in gospel ministry, where friendships or ministry relationships abruptly end without closure or explanation. They explore both internal ghosting (within the church) and external ghosting (among ministry colleagues), highlighting the confusion, pain, and disillusionment that often follow. This episode encourages pa...

In this conversation, Cary interviews guest Tommy Lee as he shares his journey and testimony, as well as his involvement in Resource Global, Wheaton College, and Together LA. They discuss the importance of addressing insecurities in leadership and dealing with pain, particularly in ministering to those in secular environments. Together they encourage leaders to embrace their strengths and rely on...

In this conversation, Cary and guest Drew Dyck discuss Drew's book 'Just Show Up: How Small Acts of Faithfulness Change Everything'. Drew shares his journey in Christian publishing and the importance of showing up and being present for others. He emphasizes the value of faithful obedience and the need to let go of perfectionism. They also explore topics such as navigating doubts, finding strength...