Episodes

What shapes a leader’s convictions—and what sustains them over time? In this episode, we sit down with pastor, author, faith director ,and cultural apologist Lucas Miles to talk about the journey that shaped his ministry, the discipline of lifelong learning, and the threats facing the Church today. Lucas shares the moments that clarified his calling, how expository preaching continues to influence the content he produces, and why pastors must pay attention to the culture at large around them. ...

What does faithful ministry look like when leadership happens in the margins—between full-time work, church transitions, and congregational needs? In this episode of Passing the Pulpit, Matt sits down with a seasoned, bi-vocational ministry leader to talk candidly about the realities of long-term service in the local church. Drawing from two decades of ministry experience, the conversation explores sermon preparation, training and empowering lay leaders, and navigating a sustainable work–life b...

What does faithful leadership require in a year already marked by tension, failure, and spiritual urgency? In this episode of Passing the Pulpit, Matt sits down with Jesse Jackson, Senior Content Editor at ChurchLeaders, to talk about the stories that are shaping the Church in early 2026—and why pastors can’t afford to ignore them. Drawing from Jesse’s daily work covering church and ministry news, the conversation moves beyond headlines to the deeper spiritual realities underneath them. Togeth...

The new year isn’t just about fresh starts—it’s about wise reflection. In this episode, we slow down to look back on the past year and talk honestly about what shaped us, stretched us, and strengthened us. Then we turn our eyes forward, considering how to move into the new year with intention, faith, and a clearer sense of direction. If you’re feeling reflective, hopeful, or somewhere in between, this episode is for you. I’d love to hear your reflections, visions for the future, or anything els...

This Christmas, we’re exploring the spiritual rhythm of returning to the manger year after year. Like the shepherds, the Magi, and generations of faithful believers, we are invited to make an annual pilgrimage—not just to a place, but into the story of Jesus’ birth, His humility, and God’s faithfulness. In this episode, we reflect on how these yearly journeys shape our faith: they help us remember God’s promises, reflect on His work in our lives, and build trust that carries us through the year....

Pastors carry so much spiritual weight that they often forget the physical, emotional, and family weight that comes with ministry. In this special episode, my wife joins me—not only as a pastor’s spouse, but also as a nutritionist—to share wisdom on setting meaningful, sustainable goals for 2026. Together we explore the challenges of planning a new year when life feels unpredictable and why caring for your body is actually a vital part of caring for your soul. Whether you’re a pastor, a spouse, ...

In this insightful and honest conversation with Todd Lidner, we dive into the critical transition many ministry leaders face when moving from church-based roles into the marketplace. Todd — founder of Launch Point — shares his experience helping ministers identify and translate their ministry gifts into meaningful, well-paid roles in the business world in addition to practical next steps for anyone in ministry feeling stuck, undervalued, or ready for a new chapter. Whether you’re currently serv...

The holiday season is one of the most meaningful—and most demanding—times of the year for pastors and ministry leaders. Between extra services, seasonal expectations, family commitments, and the pressure to deliver “your best sermons of the year,” it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or spiritually drained. In this episode, we dive into the real struggles pastors face during Thanksgiving, Advent, and Christmas, and explore practical, life-giving solutions that help you preach with clarity, creativity, ...

In a world that moves too fast and constantly tells us we deserve more, genuine gratitude has become a rare and revolutionary act. In this special Thanksgiving episode, we invite you into a deeper, more counter-cultural understanding of thankfulness—one that pushes back against entitlement, resets the soul, and opens our eyes to the quiet gifts we overlook every day. Whether you're celebrating with family, navigating a heavy season, or simply trying to slow down long enough to breathe, this con...

From First Week to First Year: The Pastoral Journey dives into the real-life experiences of a brand-new pastor navigating the early days of ministry. Join us as we talk about the excitement, challenges, and lessons that come with stepping into church leadership for the very first time. From preaching your first sermon to handling pastoral care, building relationships, managing expectations, and finding healthy rhythms — this conversation offers insight for anyone in ministry or preparing to be. ...

In this episode of Passing the Pulpit, I sit down with Jesse Smith, a former worship pastor turned entrepreneur, to explore what it really means to live out your calling beyond the walls of the church. From stage to startup, Jesse has discovered that ministry doesn’t end when Sunday service does—it just moves into new spaces. Together, we unpack how the marketplace has become one of the greatest mission fields of our time, and how faith-driven leaders can bring light, purpose, and compassion in...

We live in a world that moves at the speed of a swipe. Every day, Gen Z and young adults are bombarded with digital content designed to capture attention—but rarely to cultivate spiritual depth. So what does effective ministry look like in a culture driven by distraction, algorithms, and short attention spans? In this episode of Passing the Pulpit, we sit down with Next Gen Pastor Cory Kasperson to explore what it means to lead, disciple, and build authentic community in the digital age. Drawin...