The Carey Nieuwhof Leadership Podcast

Join John Eldredge, a bestselling author and leader of Wild at Heart, as he explores the question of whether age limits effective leadership. He emphasizes the unique challenges young pastors face and the importance of mentorship in navigating their roles. Eldredge discusses the stages of masculine development and how emotional depth can enhance leadership. He advocates for a community-focused approach over personal ambition, encouraging leaders to find fulfillment in serving others while fostering deeper connections with God.

In a revealing conversation, Levi Lusko, founder and lead pastor of Fresh Life Church, dives into his experience with mid-life crises in ministry at 38. He candidly discusses the emotional toll of childhood influences on leadership and the complexities of ambition. Levi shares personal stories of loss, including the poignant impacts of his daughter's passing. Humor intersperses his reflections, especially a funny airline mishap. The dialogue highlights essential themes of burnout, self-care, and the necessity of community support for effective leadership.

Young leaders dive into the complexities of ambition and its dual nature in leadership. Insights into maintaining meaningful friendships flourish, emphasizing the importance of genuine connections over mere professional ties. The delicate process of firing employees with dignity and compassion is explored, offering practical advice for sensitive situations. Personal reflections highlight the need to prioritize relationships to counteract burnout, all while navigating the challenging landscape of church leadership.

Glenn Packiam, a pastor and author, discusses the growing distrust in church leaders and the mental health crisis affecting next-gen pastors. He shares insights on the critical difference between being weary and wounded in leadership. The conversation explores the impact of social media on trust, the necessity for authentic relationships in ministry, and the importance of resilience and community support. Packiam highlights valuable strategies for navigating the complexities of modern pastoral work, urging leaders to redefine their identities and align with foundational beliefs.

Gabe and Rebekah Lyons share their wisdom from 28 years of marriage, discussing how to navigate life's challenges while balancing two careers. They candidly address the complexities of intimacy, emphasizing open communication and vulnerability. The couple explores the importance of setting boundaries between work and personal life, as well as seeking wise mentorship instead of relying on social media advice. Their honest dialogue offers practical insights for couples looking to strengthen their relationship amidst the chaos of modern life.

Mark Sayers, lead pastor of Red Church in Melbourne, dives into the impactful cultural and political changes reshaping our world. He discusses the complexities of the 'woke' movement and examines how changes in demographics are influencing political landscapes. With insights into navigating economic challenges, Sayers emphasizes the necessity for authentic leadership and community in turbulent times. He also highlights the rise of new media as a vital tool for fostering genuine dialogue and finding hope amidst chaos.

Kara Powell, PhD, serves as the Chief of Leadership Formation at Fuller Theological Seminary and has extensive expertise in youth and family dynamics. She discusses the disconnect between teenagers and the church, particularly highlighting why young women are stepping away while young men engage more. Kara emphasizes the need for churches to embrace creativity, inclusivity, and diversity to build trust with younger generations. She also advocates for empowering women in leadership and creating authentic relationships to revitalize church communities.

Warren Bird, Senior Vice President of Research at ECFA, and Adelle Banks, an award-winning journalist, discuss making churches future-ready in a post-pandemic world. They dive into the surprising reasons for declining attendance, especially among younger generations. The conversation highlights the importance of evolving church leadership and fostering inclusivity to reach the 'nuns'—those without religious affiliation. They also explore innovative community engagement strategies, emphasizing collaboration over traditional pastor-centric models.

Is character still relevant in leadership today? This discussion dives into the essential role of integrity, especially in Christian ministry. It debunks myths suggesting that character is secondary to competence. The episode emphasizes that character influences relationships and leadership effectiveness, drawing attention to how moral failings can erode trust. Personal insights are shared, highlighting that the next generation is seeking leaders with strong character. Ultimately, the conversation champions self-reflection and growth as keys to authentic leadership.

Mark Batterson, lead pastor of National Community Church in Washington, D.C., revolutionizes church funding with his innovative strategies. He shares how his church grew from just 29 people to owning valuable properties, like coffee houses, in a competitive market. The conversation dives into the gradual yet sudden nature of success, exploring adaptable leadership and community engagement. Batterson also emphasizes the importance of faith in navigating challenges, especially amid political unrest, while celebrating everyday miracles and the journey of growth.