Leading Ideas Talks

Allen Stanton, an ordained elder in the United Methodist Church and author, dives into the surprising strengths of small congregations. He discusses how their relational nature fosters adaptability and spiritual growth. Stanton also challenges the notion that success is solely tied to size, advocating for the unique contributions of smaller churches in community and faith. Highlights include the importance of intergenerational dynamics and how everyday activities can ignite spiritual development, showcasing the vital role these communities play in today's landscape.

Podcast Episode 165 What shifts are needed for congregations to be future-ready? Adelle Banks reflects on the evolving nature of church hospitality, social justice, technology, and vitality. She highlights innovative approaches that foster belonging, authentic community, and discipleship in a rapidly changing world. Listen on Apple Podcasts | YouTube Music | Spotify Watch on YouTube Becoming a Future-Ready Church: 8 Shifts [...]

Podcast Episode 164 How can church leaders overcome burnout? In this episode, Callie Swanlund discusses her book, From Weary to Wholehearted, exploring burnout and its unique challenges. She introduces the SPARK practice—Soma, Preparation, Awe, Retreat, and Kinship—as a holistic approach to overcoming ministry burnout. Callie emphasizes the importance of recognizing burnout signs, creating supportive environments [...]

Podcast Episode 163 Connecting with people and helping them grow as disciples requires a new playbook and a new way of leading. Stephen Handy shares how his Nashville church is reaching and discipling people in unchurchy ways by getting to know their neighbors, forging new missional partnerships, and focusing intentionally on relationships. Listen on Apple Podcasts | YouTube Music | Spotify [...]

Podcast Episode 162 How can congregations faithfully engage in ministry with Millennials and Gen Z? In this episode, Dexter Nutall shares how New Bethel Church engages these generations. The church fosters belonging, social justice, and leadership, creating a welcoming and impactful community for young people. Listen on Apple Podcasts | YouTube Music | Spotify Watch on YouTube Read in-depth interview Related [...]

Podcast Episode 161 How can spiritual direction impact leaders and congregations? In this episode Eunhyey Lok reflects on the role of spiritual direction, its benefits for personal and church growth, distinctions from counseling, and tips for finding a spiritual director. Listen on Apple Podcasts | YouTube Music | Spotify Watch on YouTube Read in-depth interview Related Resources Spiritual Lessons from a [...]

Podcast Episode 160 What does the post-pandemic and post-disaffiliation United Methodist Church (UMC) look like? In this episode, Jessica Anschutz speaks with Lewis Center Director Doug Powe and Senior Consultant Lovett Weems, who discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the UMC. They highlight regionalization, the need for structural reform, and changes to the ordination process, while [...]