In this episode of the Lead Ministry Podcast, Josh and Bill explore why many ministry leaders struggle to find volunteers and how a lack of preparation might be the hidden reason. Drawing on practical examples and biblical principles, they discuss how building infrastructure today can prepare you for the blessings God wants to send tomorrow. Whether it’s creating scalable systems or investing in long-term solutions, this episode equips leaders with actionable insights to future-proof their...

In this episode of the Lead Ministry Podcast, Josh and Bill dive into one of the most challenging decisions ministry leaders face: knowing when to take immediate action versus waiting for the right moment. Drawing from years of leadership experience, they explore how wisdom, patience, and strategic thinking can transform obstacles into opportunities. Whether it’s navigating complex team dynamics or evaluating underperforming programs, this episode equips leaders with practical tools to...

Episode Description:   In this episode of the Lead Ministry Podcast, Josh and Bill break down how ministry leaders can transform their Sunday mornings from chaotic to calm. They explore the concept of showing a “yes face” instead of a “stress face” and why this shift makes a powerful difference when welcoming new families. From practical steps to tackle tasks ahead of time to strategies for creating an inviting atmosphere, they offer insights for leaders looking to make meaningful...

Episode Description: In this episode of the Lead Ministry Podcast, Josh and Bill tackle a rarely discussed but vital topic for ministry leaders: the challenges and sacrifices faced by ministry spouses. Ministry can be incredibly fulfilling, but it can also come at a high cost for family members, particularly spouses who often shoulder extra burdens on Sundays and special events. Josh and Bill dive deep into the hidden dynamics of balancing ministry responsibilities with family life and share...

In this episode of the Lead Ministry Podcast, Josh and Bill break down a powerful shift in how ministry leaders should view recruiting: it’s not just about filling spots, it’s about making disciples. Too many leaders feel overwhelmed by the need for volunteers, but this episode reveals how recruiting is a crucial opportunity to disciple people into deeper faith and community.   Josh shares a deeply personal story of desperation when he needed 125 volunteers, and how that challenge...

In this episode of the Lead Ministry Podcast, Josh and Bill dive into a game-changing concept for ministry leaders: treating recruiting like sales to bring in top volunteers. Recruiting isn’t just about filling a role—it’s about building a team that pushes your ministry to thrive. Too often, leaders settle for whoever is available, but Josh and Bill challenge you to go after the best. This episode uncovers the number one secret to recruiting volunteers: developing a strategy just like you...

In this episode of the Lead Ministry Podcast, Josh and Bill explore a crucial aspect of leadership: recruiting top volunteers who elevate your ministry. Recruitment is not just about filling slots; it's about building a high-quality team that will truly impact your church. Too often, leaders settle for less because they hesitate to ask the best candidates. Josh and Bill challenge this mindset and share strategies for aiming higher in your recruitment efforts. This episode uncovers how to...

In this episode of the Lead Ministry Podcast, Josh and Bill dive deep into a vital leadership skill: recruiting volunteers with freedom and grace. Volunteer recruitment is crucial in ministry, but too often, leaders rely on high-pressure tactics that leave volunteers feeling cornered. Josh and Bill share a game-changing approach—allowing people the freedom to say no. This strategy not only respects people's autonomy but also helps build a healthier, more engaged volunteer team. This episode...

In this episode of the Lead Ministry Podcast, Josh and Bill tackle one of the most critical challenges in ministry leadership: recruiting volunteers effectively. Volunteer recruitment is essential for sustaining and growing your ministry, but many leaders unknowingly make a common mistake that can undermine their efforts. Josh and Bill share insights on how to avoid this pitfall and provide a fresh perspective on how to recruit with purpose and impact. This episode delves into the importance...

In this episode of the Lead Ministry Podcast, Josh and Bill dive deep into a timely and critical leadership skill: conflict management during a divisive political season. Conflict is inevitable in ministry, especially in politically charged times, but how you approach it can make all the difference. Josh and Bill share practical strategies for navigating political tensions and leading your church through challenging conversations without alienating people. This episode explores how to reduce...

In Episode 243 of the Lead Ministry Podcast, Josh and Bill explore a crucial leadership skill: informed conflict management. Conflict is inevitable in ministry, but being caught off guard doesn’t have to be. In this episode, they discuss how gathering the right information before stepping into conflict can drastically change the outcome. By leading with wisdom and understanding, you can manage difficult situations with grace and confidence. Discover how informed leadership can prevent...

In Episode 242 of the Lead Ministry Podcast, Josh and Bill tackle one of the most overlooked aspects of leadership: not all opinions are created equal. As ministry leaders, we often feel the pressure to please everyone, but doing so can lead to chaos and burnout. In this episode, they reveal how to wisely discern whose opinions carry the most weight and how to manage those that don’t. Discover how to stop counting opinions and start weighing them, a key strategy for leading effectively and...

Episode 241: Are You Making These Leadership Mistakes?   In Episode 241 of the Lead Ministry Podcast, Josh and Bill unpack the critical leadership mistakes that often go unnoticed yet can have a significant impact on your ministry. Conflict is an inevitable part of leadership, but how you navigate it can make or break the trust within your team. In this episode, they break down preemptive strategies to help you minimize conflict and manage it effectively when it arises. Discover how to...

Episode Description:In episode 240 of the Lead Ministry Podcast, Josh and Bill dive deep into effective strategies for de-escalating tense situations in ministry. Conflict is inevitable, but how we handle it can either bring resolution or escalate tensions. In this insightful conversation, they introduce the "Slow, Soft, and Small" approach to handling conflict with emotional intelligence, ensuring that you lead with calm and composure. From practical body language tips to adopting the fruits...

Episode Description: In this episode of the Lead Ministry Podcast, we dive deep into the challenges of managing conflict in ministry. Whether you're a seasoned leader or new to the role, conflict is inevitable—but how you handle it can make all the difference. Josh and Bill explore the difference between immature and mature reactions to conflict, offering practical tools to help you navigate these tricky situations with grace and wisdom. Key topics covered include: The importance of...

Episode Summary: In this episode of the Lead Ministry Podcast, hosts Josh Denhart and Bill Van Kirk tackle the critical topic of conflict management within ministry. They focus on the number one rule when managing conflict: the importance of including all stakeholders, especially spouses, in the resolution process. Through engaging discussions and real-life examples, Josh and Bill reveal how this approach can prevent misunderstandings, foster unity, and create lasting peace. Listeners will...

Episode Summary In this episode of the Lead Ministry Podcast, hosts Josh Denhart and Bill Van Kirk delve into the essential topic of conflict management within ministry. They introduce the concept of the "Four Keys" to mastering conflict before it starts, offering practical insights and strategies to help ministry leaders prevent conflicts from arising. Throughout the discussion, they highlight the significance of character, chemistry, competence, and circumstances of life in building a...

Episode Summary In this episode of the Lead Ministry Podcast, hosts Josh Denhart and Bill Van Kirk tackle the unavoidable reality of conflict in ministry. They introduce listeners to the new course "Lead Conflict," which aims to help ministry leaders navigate and manage conflicts effectively. Throughout the discussion, they emphasize the importance of being emotionally intelligent when addressing conflict, as well as strategies to reduce its frequency. With insightful anecdotes and...

Episode Summary: In this inspiring episode of the Lead Ministry podcast, host Josh Denhart sits down with guest Josh Zello to celebrate a remarkable success story in ministry. Together, they explore the journey of transforming tragedy into triumph and share practical insights that can help anyone in children's ministry, youth ministry, or any church leadership role. Through a heartfelt conversation, Josh Zello discusses how his innovative outreach, including leadership in a community park...

Episode Summary: In episode 234 of the Lead Ministry podcast, host Josh Denhart brings on special guest Josh Zello to discuss an impactful ministry strategy called "Switching, Not Ditching." Josh Zello, a theologian and preschool ministry expert, joins the show to share his success story. By applying the techniques and tools from the Lead Volunteers program, Zello transformed the volunteer system at his church, minimizing last-minute chaos and enhancing overall organization. The host and...

Episode Summary In this enlightening episode of the Lead Ministry Podcast, host Josh Denhart welcomes a very special guest, Josh Zello. This episode dives into a powerful success story that spans the realms of podcast impact, ministry coursework, and one-on-one coaching. Zello shares his journey from being a preschool pastor to leading a comprehensive children's ministry at a church plant in Baltimore. He talks about the instrumental role of the Lead Volunteers coursework and the...

Episode Summary: In this impactful episode of the Lead Ministry podcast, host Josh Denhart is joined by guest Preston Hocker to explore the transformative power of serving beyond traditional church roles. They discuss the importance of community service and share personal experiences of engaging in various outreach projects, from homeless shelter cleanups to initiatives aimed at combating human trafficking. Preston emphasizes how stepping out of usual church responsibilities and contributing...

Episode Summary In episode 231 of the Lead Ministry Podcast, host Josh Denhart along with co-host Bill Van Kirk delve into the intriguing concept of "Why Being a Lizard Could Be Your Key to Success." Inspired by the wisdom of Proverbs, they examine how the characteristics of a lizard can offer profound lessons in gaining access to influential people and opportunities. This episode is packed with practical advice and real-life stories that highlight the importance of persistence, creativity,...

Episode Summary In episode 230 of the Lead Ministry Podcast, host Josh Denhart along with co-host Bill Van Kirk dive deep into the art of organization through the unique lens of the "Locust Strategy." Drawing inspiration from Proverbs, they explore how self-leadership and systematic organization can lead to greater success in ministry and other areas of life. Whether you're naturally organized or struggling to maintain order, this episode offers practical tips and insights that will help you...