
Watermark's Church Leadership Podcast
A podcast designed to help church leaders. The conversation each month will focus on issues and topics relevant to church leaders across the country and around the world.
Latest episodes

Feb 5, 2025 • 19min
How Leadership Gifts Shape the Church
In this episode of the Church Leadership Podcast, John McGee unpacks the roles of APEST found in Ephesians 4:11-13 —Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Shepherds, and Teachers —and how these leadership giftings shape the church. He explores their strengths and challenges, explaining why a balanced team is essential for both growth and sustainability. Whether you’re planting churches or leading teams, this episode will help you recognize, empower, and collaborate with different gifts for maximum impact.
The Young Leader Cohort is a ministry of Watermark Resources, created to equip the next generation of church leaders with biblical discipleship, practical training, and lasting relationships for a lifetime of faithful ministry. Learn more and apply at https://info.watermarkresources.com/lp/watermark-young-church-leader-cohort

Jan 22, 2025 • 39min
Knowing When to Stay
In today’s fast-paced culture, it’s easy to feel the pull toward the next big opportunity. As a follow-up to December’s episode, Knowing When to Leave, this episode dives into the topic of knowing when to stay and the value of long-term leadership in ministry. If you’re wrestling with the decision to stay or go, this episode offers practical wisdom and encouragement to embrace the long game in ministry—and experience the joy it brings.
The Young Leader Cohort is a ministry of Watermark Resources, created to equip the next generation of church leaders with biblical discipleship, practical training, and lasting relationships for a lifetime of faithful ministry. Learn more and apply at https://info.watermarkresources.com/lp/watermark-young-church-leader-cohort

Jan 8, 2025 • 17min
The Power of Urgency
Urgency can make or break a leader. In this episode of the Church Leadership Podcast, John McGee unpacks the topic of urgency and why it is the secret weapon of great leaders by driving motivation and action. Tune in for encouragement and practical steps to help you lead with urgency, embrace meaningful goals, and move your organization away from complacency.
The Young Leader Cohort is a ministry of Watermark Resources, created to equip the next generation of church leaders with biblical discipleship, practical training, and lasting relationships for a lifetime of faithful ministry. Learn more and apply at https://info.watermarkresources.com/lp/watermark-young-church-leader-cohort

Dec 18, 2024 • 6min
If No One Has Told You Yet...Thanks
In the final episode of the year, host John McGee expresses gratitude to listeners for their selfless service to Christ and others. He acknowledges their impactful work and extends heartfelt thanks for their dedication, both seen and unseen. We will see you all in 2025!
The Young Leader Cohort is a ministry of Watermark Resources, created to equip the next generation of church leaders with biblical discipleship, practical training, and lasting relationships for a lifetime of faithful ministry. Learn more and apply at https://info.watermarkresources.com/lp/watermark-young-church-leader-cohort

Dec 4, 2024 • 44min
Knowing When to Leave
Struggling to discern if it’s time to step away from your current role? In the next episode of the Church Leadership Podcast, John McGee and Dave Bruskas (Director of Re:generation at Watermark) dive into the challenges of navigating career transitions in ministry. From recognizing the impact on your family and addressing unresolved conflicts to aligning your desires with God’s will, they offer practical wisdom and spiritual guidance for making these tough decisions. Don’t miss this insightful conversation on how to leave well—or stay with purpose. Recommended Resources:Eugene Peterson, "Under the Unpredictable Plant"Eugene Peterson, "Working the Angles"Bruce Waltke, "Finding the Will of God"Justin Lester, "Necessary Endings"Gary Thomas, "When to Walk Away"Episode 115 - How to Leave a Job Well
The Young Leader Cohort is a ministry of Watermark Resources, created to equip the next generation of church leaders with biblical discipleship, practical training, and lasting relationships for a lifetime of faithful ministry. Learn more and apply at https://info.watermarkresources.com/lp/watermark-young-church-leader-cohort

Nov 13, 2024 • 45min
The History of Re|engage
Join the Church Leadership Podcast as we celebrate Watermark Community Church’s 25th anniversary by exploring the inspiring history of Re|engage. Since its inception in 2006, our marriage enrichment ministry has transformed the lives of over 137,000 couples across 650 churches. Hear powerful personal stories of change and discover how this gospel-centered discipleship program strengthens marriages, fosters community and accountability, and aims to impact one million marriages. www.reengage.org
The Young Leader Cohort is a ministry of Watermark Resources, created to equip the next generation of church leaders with biblical discipleship, practical training, and lasting relationships for a lifetime of faithful ministry. Learn more and apply at https://info.watermarkresources.com/lp/watermark-young-church-leader-cohort

Oct 30, 2024 • 42min
The Power of a Master Calendar
In this episode of the Church Leadership Podcast, John McGee and Caitlin Van Wagoner dive into Watermark's Master Calendar system. They chat about how it keeps the church mission-focused and resources in sync, tackling the ups and downs of growing organizations. Tune in to hear about the power of solid planning, the importance of leadership buy-in, and how teamwork makes ministry more impactful.Designation Service MenuMaster Calendar Process Explained
The Young Leader Cohort is a ministry of Watermark Resources, created to equip the next generation of church leaders with biblical discipleship, practical training, and lasting relationships for a lifetime of faithful ministry. Learn more and apply at https://info.watermarkresources.com/lp/watermark-young-church-leader-cohort

Oct 16, 2024 • 42min
Prioritize Your Marriage
In this session from Church Leaders Conference, John and Pam McGee share the importance of prioritizing your marriage as your first ministry. He emphasizes evaluating one's ministry, the significance of character and competency in leadership, and the necessity of being content and intentional in your marriage. CLC Giveaway Blocks
The Young Leader Cohort is a ministry of Watermark Resources, created to equip the next generation of church leaders with biblical discipleship, practical training, and lasting relationships for a lifetime of faithful ministry. Learn more and apply at https://info.watermarkresources.com/lp/watermark-young-church-leader-cohort

Oct 2, 2024 • 32min
Things We Say Around Watermark
Explore the unique sayings that shape the culture of a church community. From 'Think Like an Owner' to the 'Last 2%/24-Hour Rule,' discover how words can influence leadership dynamics and team ownership. Delve into lighthearted moments like a game of farkle that strengthens friendships. Learn the significance of balancing leadership responsibilities with personal connections, while prioritizing effective communication. Get insights on fostering a supportive environment where faithfulness and humor go hand in hand.

Sep 18, 2024 • 39min
Leading Through Trials and Suffering
In this week’s episode of the Church Leadership Podcast, Dave Bruskas (Director of Re:generation) shares his personal journey of working in ministry and the hardships he has faced along the way. Listen to be reminded of God's faithfulness and sustaining presence, and be encouraged of the ways He uses our challenges to shape our faith and leadership.
The Young Leader Cohort is a ministry of Watermark Resources, created to equip the next generation of church leaders with biblical discipleship, practical training, and lasting relationships for a lifetime of faithful ministry. Learn more and apply at https://info.watermarkresources.com/lp/watermark-young-church-leader-cohort