5LQ Episode 399: Ben Mandrell

In this episode of the 5 Leadership Questions podcast, Todd Adkins is joined by Ben Mandrell, president and CEO of Lifeway Christian Resources. During their conversation, they discuss the transition from established church pastor to church planter to Lifeway and the importance of listening to a diverse group of people from the larger group you lead. BEST QUOTES “All ministry is hard, no matter where you serve.” “Pastoring the established church requires a lot more patience, when you are a planter you are driving a speedboat.” “If I could go back and be an established pastor again, I would be a church planting pastor.” “Planting a church in the west was the hardest thing I’ve ever done, but very rewarding.” “I think Lifeway is now positioned to make a massive impact in the local church.” “I think a lot of learning happens through good conversation and good question asking.” “If you aren’t constantly articulating the overall mission, then all of the subgroups begin to take on their own focus and lose sight of the big picture.” “The leader’s job is to keep shuffling that deck and to make sure that different people have the opportunity to exert influence.” “Form 4 or 5 listening groups that have a diverse representation from your flock and ask some big picture questions. See what kind of information comes out of that because it will be some of the best data you can get.” “I feel the gravity of leadership so heavy some days that I forget to have fun.” “Beware of the barrenness of a busy life.” “It took me at least 15 years in ministry to realize how important it was to spend time with my key staff.” RECOMMENDED RESOURCES Lifeway Leadership Podcast Network Ministry Grid Age of Opportunity by Paul Tripp Getting Things Done by David Allen Leadership Pipeline Coaching Events