

unSeminary Podcast
Rich Birch
stuff you wish they taught in seminary.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 19, 2024 • 32min
Rebuilding and Relaunching: Lessons in Church Renewal with James Griffin
Welcome back to the unSeminary podcast. We’re talking with James Griffin, the lead pastor at Crosspoint City Church in Georgia. Is your church working through a difficult season and struggling to see fruit? Wondering how a church can overcome significant challenges and emerge stronger than ever? In this episode of the unSeminary Podcast James shares […]

Dec 12, 2024 • 38min
Power of a Map, Not a Menu: Transforming Ministry Strategy with Mariners Church’s Jared Kirkwood
Jared Kirkwood, Executive Pastor at Mariners Church Irvine, shares his insights on ministry strategy with over 16 years of experience in pastoral roles. He discusses Mariners’ 'transformational loop’—a four-part discipleship framework aimed at aligning all ministries to amplify impact. Jared emphasizes the importance of a 'map' over a 'menu' for guiding church members through their spiritual journey. He also delves into strategic leadership in multi-site settings and the significance of engaging the online community for ministry success.

Dec 5, 2024 • 33min
Building Leaders for the Next Generation: Insights on Developing Residency Programs with Pat Gillen
Welcome back to the unSeminary podcast. We’re talking with Pat Gillen, the Executive Pastor of Families and a teaching pastor from First Baptist Simpsonville / Upstate Church in South Carolina. How are you cultivating leaders at your church? Are you trying to figure out your next step for developing Gen Z? Tune in as Pat […]

Nov 28, 2024 • 32min
Staying Aligned as a Staff Team in a Growing Church: Insights from Andy Hill
Andy Hill, Executive Pastor at Mobberly Baptist Church, shares insights on maintaining staff alignment in a growing church. He discusses the challenges of managing a dispersed team and emphasizes the importance of intentional weekly meetings that blend spiritual connection and practical planning. Innovative strategies like 'hot seat' sessions foster personal bonds among staff, while resources for self-care and personal reflection are highlighted. Hill urges nurturing spiritual well-being to enhance the church's mission and create community.

Nov 21, 2024 • 36min
Embracing Digital for Church Growth: Insights from Saddleback’s Online Pastor Jay Kranda
Welcome back to the unSeminary podcast. We’re talking with Jay Kranda this week, the online campus pastor at Saddleback Church in California. What are you doing with online church? How does it fit in with your digital strategy? How can digital tools strengthen in-person community? Tune in as Jay discusses a team-based approach to digital […]

Nov 14, 2024 • 47min
Stability in Transition: Insights on Church Succession from Drake Farmer
In this discussion, Drake Farmer, Executive Pastor at Beulah Alliance Church in Alberta, Canada, shares essential insights on church succession planning. He emphasizes the importance of proactive leadership transitions, noting they should begin years in advance. Trust-building and mission focus are key in ensuring smooth changes in leadership. Drake also discusses navigating the challenges of connecting diverse communities while honoring past leaders, highlighting how foresight can secure a church's future.

Nov 13, 2024 • 38min
Leadership People Will Trust: Insights from Jenni Field’s Nobody Believes You
In this deep dive episode of the unSeminary podcast, we explore Jenni Field’s insightful book Nobody Believes You: Become a Leader People Will Follow. This conversation delves into practical strategies and timeless leadership principles tailored especially for those guiding teams in a church context. Field’s book offers a fresh perspective on becoming a credible leader […]

Nov 7, 2024 • 34min
Grow More, Send More: Building a Sending Church with Andrew Hopper
Welcome back to the unSeminary podcast. This week we’re talking with Andrew Hopper, the founding and lead pastor of Mercy Hill Church in North Carolina. Andrew has also started Breaking Barriers, which provides pastors and churches with biblical strategies to help them grow in order to go. Are you curious about how to effectively grow […]

Oct 31, 2024 • 36min
Kids Ministry in a Changing World: Building a Thriving Children’s Ministry with Justyn Smith
Welcome to the unSeminary podcast! This week we have with us Justyn Smith, Executive Kids Pastor at Cornerstone Church in Arizona and a story catalyst at Plain Joe. What does an effective children’s ministry look like? What does kids’ ministry at your church look like when you put yourself in the shoes of a child, […]

Oct 30, 2024 • 34min
How to Make Your Church Irresistible: Proven Strategies for Creating an Invite Culture
Discover how to transform your church into an inviting community! The conversation dives into impactful teachings that resonate with members, making sermons feel like essential life support. Learn about creating memorable experiences during major events, capturing attention both online and in person. Explore engaging volunteer initiatives that foster a sense of belonging. Hear success stories from various churches that demonstrate how empathy and connection can turn guests into dedicated members, inviting others to join the journey.