The Called to Flourish Podcast
by Robert Wachter
The CALLED TO FLOURISH Podcast from Best Christian Workplaces equips and inspires Christian leaders to transform their workplaces into beacons of hope where faith comes alive, people and organizations flourish, and the Gospel shines through flourishing culture.
Episodes
-
A Strong Church Reputation Can Hide Staff Culture Problems — Tim McConnell, First Presbyterian Church
A church can have a strong reputation and a long history while the people serving on its staff quietly wear down. When departures come as surprises, the harder question is whether leaders can see what their staff is experiencing. In this conversation, Tim McConnell, Lead Pastor of First...
-
You Say You Want Innovation. Your Culture May Want Excellence — Giselle Jenkins, Best Christian Workplaces
Most leaders will tell you they want innovation. The harder question is what happens inside an organization when a new idea challenges how things have always been done. Giselle Jenkins, a Senior Consultant at Best Christian Workplaces, explains how tradition, founding DNA, and a deep commitment…
more -
From "Barely Healthy" to One of America's Fastest-Growing Churches — Greg Anderson, Traders Point Christian Church
Traders Point Christian Church's staff culture was once, in Greg Anderson's own words, "barely healthy." Since then, they've built a healthy, flourishing workplace culture — and the church itself has become one of the fastest-growing in the country. Executive Pastor Greg Anderson makes the case...
-
Your Leadership Can Look Healthy and Still Be Running on Empty — Mindy Caliguire, Soul Care
A leader's metrics can be strong and their mission moving forward while their soul quietly erodes underneath — and most leaders miss it until it becomes a crisis. This conversation with Mindy Caliguire, co-founder and CEO of Soul Care, unpacks why external success so often hides internal…
more -
Toxic Culture Doesn't Mean Bad People — It Means Nobody's Watering the Garden — Phil EuBank, Menlo Church
Most leaders assume a toxic culture means bad people — but the leaders who turn it around know it usually means nobody's been tending the garden. Leaders inheriting a toxic culture face a familiar temptation: fix it fast, or avoid naming what's actually broken. Phil EuBank, Lead Pastor of Menlo...
-
Your Staff Is Already Using AI. Do You Have a Policy? — Dustin W. Stout, Magai
Most leaders think they still have time to figure out their AI policy. Dustin W. Stout says that clock ran out the moment their staff opened ChatGPT for the first time. Christian leaders are facing a technology shift moving faster than most policies can keep up with. In this episode, Dustin W....
-
He Didn't Ask for a 360. He Chose What to Do With It. — David Corry, Liberty University
Not every leader gets to choose when growth arrives. David Corry, General Counsel for Liberty University, didn't choose the timing — but what he did with the opportunity is the real story. When Liberty University committed to investing in its leaders' growth, David Corry was one of the executives...
-
Women Aren't Leaving Over Pay — They're Leaving Because No One's Listening — Joanna Meyer, Denver Institute for Faith & Work
Most Christian leaders believe they value women's full contribution — but the structures working against that belief are often invisible until someone measures them. Leaders in Christian-led organizations are facing a quiet retention problem: women disengaging not over pay, but over voice…
more -
The Leaders Who Stay Stuck Already Know Their Blind Spots — Amy Clark, Growth Minded Leadership
Most leaders who plateau aren't missing feedback — they're avoiding what honest feedback requires of them. Self-identification, it turns out, is only 20% of self-awareness. Leadership development has a blind spot of its own: it focuses heavily on skills while overlooking the inner work that…
more -
Your People Aren't Burned Out—Their Work May Be Draining the Life Out of Them — Jay Bransford, Best Christian Workplaces
Many leaders assume disengagement is primarily a motivation or performance problem. But what if the real issue is that people no longer experience their work as life-giving? In this episode, Jay Bransford, President & CEO of Best Christian Workplaces, explores why Life-Giving Work is the second...
-
The Strongest Ministries Don't Ignore the People Closest to Them — Michael Martin, ECFA
Many Christian-led organizations are passionate about serving people externally—but struggle to care for the health of their own teams internally. In this episode, Michael Martin, President & CEO of ECFA, explains why flourishing cultures require intentional stewardship, leadership rhythms, and a...
-
You Can't Build External Trust on Internal Instability — Dr. Rob McKenna, WiLD Leaders
Trust problems rarely begin with strategy. More often, they begin with fear, self-protection, and leaders trying to create stability externally while struggling internally. In this episode, Dr. Rob McKenna—CEO of WiLD Leaders and bestselling author of Whole Leaders, Wild Trust—shares why trust...
-
Engagement Hit a 15-Year High. So Why Are 39% Still Disengaged? — Dr. Doug Waldo, Best Christian Workplaces
Employee engagement across Christian-led organizations has reached its highest level in 15 years. Yet nearly 4 in 10 employees still cannot bring their best to work each day. In this episode, Dr. Doug Waldo, Research Director and Senior Consultant at Best Christian Workplaces, explains what the...
-
Diversity Isn't the Problem—Disconnection Is — Dr. James Borishade, Circle Urban Ministries
Many leaders assume diversity creates tension on teams. But the deeper threat to engagement isn't difference—it's disconnection. In this episode, Dr. James Borishade of Circle Urban Ministries explains how leaders can create psychological safety across differences so teams remain unified around...
-
Ask for Feedback Before the Decision: How DiscipleMakers Built a 100th Percentile Ministry Culture — Peter Krol and Tom Hallman, DiscipleMakers
What happens when leaders invite feedback before decisions are finalized instead of after they're announced? In this episode of Called to Flourish, Peter Krol, President, and Tom Hallman, Vice President of DiscipleMakers, share how their ministry built one of the most engaged workplace cultures…
more -
Data-Driven Leadership: How Facing the Truth About Culture Builds Trust and Strengthens Your Church — Brad Cooper, NewSpring Church
What happens when leaders stop guessing about culture and start listening to what their teams are actually experiencing? In this episode of Called to Flourish, Brad Cooper, Lead Pastor of Culture and Direction at NewSpring Church, shares how honest feedback and engagement surveys helped their...
-
Forgiveness in the Workplace: How Leaders Build Trust and Heal Culture — Tara VanderSande, Best Christian Workplaces
What happens when unforgiveness quietly shapes your workplace culture? In this episode of Called to Flourish, Tara VanderSande, Senior Engagement and Talent Consultant at Best Christian Workplaces, explores why forgiveness is not just a personal spiritual practice—but a leadership discipline that...
-
Fantastic Teams: Why Flourishing Is a "We," Not a "Me" — Jay Bransford, Best Christian Workplaces
Why do some teams flourish while others stall — even under strong leadership? In this episode of Called to Flourish, Jay Bransford, President & CEO of Best Christian Workplaces, explores why thriving cultures are built on unified teams aligned around shared mission and trust. Drawing from…
more -
Becoming the Kind of Leader People Want to Follow — Jim Brown, OrgHealth
What makes people truly want to follow a leader — not out of obligation, but out of trust and belief? In this episode of Called to Flourish, Jim Brown, Founder of OrgHealth and leadership coach, challenges the myth of perfect leadership and shares why authenticity, humility, and curiosity are the...
-
How ACSI Built a High-Trust Culture That People Want to Stay In — Dr. Larry Taylor, ACSI
What does it take to build a workplace culture where people genuinely trust leadership—and want to stay? In this episode of Called to Flourish, Dr. Larry Taylor, President & CEO of ACSI, shares how ACSI strengthened organizational trust through intentional listening, leadership transparency, and...
-
Is Your Business Also Your Ministry? Kingdom Leadership at Work — Barry Slauenwhite, Best Christian Workplaces
What if your business is more than profit — or even social good? In this episode of Called to Flourish, Barry Slauenwhite and Robert Wachter explore how Christian leaders can see the marketplace as a mission field, using daily business decisions to advance eternal purpose. From "return on…
more -
Called to Flourish: God's Original Design for Fruitful Life and Leadership — Jay Bransford, Best Christian Workplaces
What does it truly mean to flourish—and why does Scripture present flourishing as God's original design, not a modern ambition? In this opening episode of Called to Flourish, Robert Wachter, Global Marketing Director, sits down with Jay Bransford, President & CEO of Best Christian Workplaces, to...
-
Called to Flourish — A Fresh Podcast for Leaders Seeking Healthy, Christ-Centered Cultures
A new chapter is beginning at Best Christian Workplaces. In early January, we're launching the Called to Flourish Podcast—a new conversation space designed to equip Christian leaders to build healthy, Christ-centered workplace cultures across churches, ministries, nonprofits, and faith-driven...
-
458: How Is It with Your Soul? Strengthening Leadership from the Inside Out // Ruth Haley Barton, Transforming Center
Join us for this encore episode with Ruth Haley Barton, founder of the Transforming Center, as she explores the critical question every leader must face: 'How is it with your soul?' Discover why leaders who neglect their inner spiritual life risk losing themselves, and how cultivating spiritual...
-
457: Moving Through the Tunnel: A Harvard Expert's Guide to Difficult Conversations // Sheila Heen, Triad Consulting Group
What if the way we give and receive feedback could unlock healthier relationships and stronger workplace cultures? In this conversation, Sheila Heen—Harvard Law School lecturer, co-author of Thanks for the Feedback, and expert on negotiation and communication—shares powerful insights into why...
-
456: How to Move Your Team from 63% to 81% Engaged in 12 Months // Brian Mosley, RightNow Media
Inspirational leadership has the power to shape culture, energize teams, and move an organization toward its mission with renewed passion. In this episode, RightNow Media president Brian Mosley shares how his multigenerational ministry story and commitment to using media for God's purposes offer...
-
455: From Crisis to Culture Change: How Prairie College Reversed a Downward Spiral // Mark Maxwell, Prairie College
Join Mark Maxwell, President of Prairie College, as he shares the inspiring story of how a struggling campus culture was transformed into a thriving, engaged community. In this conversation with Al Lopus, Mark reveals practical leadership lessons on building trust, valuing employees, and...
-
454: How Sustainable Strategy Unlocked a Thriving Workplace Culture at 4KIDS // Kevin Enders, 4KIDS
How does a culture of prayer, intentional strategy, and Christ-centered care transform not just an organization—but the lives of vulnerable children? In this encore episode, Kevin Enders, former president of 4KIDS, shares how sustainable strategy and a flourishing workplace culture came together…
more -
453: Stories of Culture Transformation: From Courage to Flourishing // Cary Humphries, Giselle Jenkins, Best Christian Workplaces
In this special encore episode, two trusted voices from Best Christian Workplaces, Giselle Jenkins and Cary Humphries, reflect on standout moments from the podcast series focused on the FLOURISH Model. They revisit powerful stories and practical strategies that continue to equip leaders in…
more -
452: How One Company's Culture Transformation Drove Engagement and Revenue // Troy Meachum, ACR Supply
What happens when a president leads with intentional communication and a heart for spiritual impact? In this encore episode, Troy Meachum, President of ACR Supply Company, shares how trust, stewardship, and a people-first approach have shaped a flourishing workplace culture. Find full show notes...
-
451: 3 Keys to Developing a Rewarding Compensation Program // Susan Griffith Byers, Church Compensation Services
Compensation is one of the most tangible ways organizations demonstrate value and care for their people. In this encore episode, we revisit a conversation with Susan Griffith Byers, Founder of Church Compensation Services, to explore how fair, strategic pay practices can strengthen culture and...
-
450: Eight Drivers of a Flourishing Workplace Culture // Giselle Jenkins, Best Christian Workplaces
In this episode, Al Lopus and Giselle Jenkins unpack the eight-factor FLOURISH Model—a powerful framework for building a Christ-centered workplace where people truly want to stay. Find full show notes here: https://workplaces.org/podcast/450-eight-drivers-of-a-flourishing-workplace-culture Share...
-
449: Why Flourishing Workplaces Still Matter: A Final Word from Al Lopus // Al Lopus, Best Christian Workplaces
What if the most effective, transformative workplaces in the world were led by Christians? In this final episode as host of the Flourishing Culture Leadership Podcast, Al Lopus reflects on over a decade of powerful conversations with Christian leaders who have turned that vision into...
-
448: Thank God It's Monday: Building a Ministry Culture Employees Love // Doug Mazza, Joni and Friends
In this episode, as Al Lopus, host of the Flourishing Culture Leadership Podcast, closes his time as the host, he welcomes back one of his very first guests, Doug Mazza. From leading Hyundai Motor America to expanding the global reach of Joni and Friends, Doug shares how Christ-centered…
more -
447: Thriving Leaders Start Within: How Self-Leadership Shapes Organizations // Tami Heim, Christian Leadership Alliance
If you're feeling the weight of leadership, this episode offers a timely reminder: your most effective strategy may not be something new you do, but someone deeper you become. Join us as Tami Heim, President and CEO of the Christian Leadership Alliance, shares how personal spiritual formation is...
-
446: Hiring with Purpose: A Predictive Model for Building Flourishing Teams // Chad Carter
If you've ever second-guessed a hiring decision—or worried about choosing the wrong person—this episode will give you a practical path forward. Chad Carter, the principal chair for C12 forums in East Tennessee and author of The Predictive Hiring Model, shares six key disciplines that can help you...
-
445: Culture That Flourishes, Leaders Who Last // Peter Greer, HOPE International
When leaders let go of image management and embrace authenticity, transformation follows. In this powerful conversation, Peter Greer, President and CEO of HOPE International, shares honest insights on identity, humility, and what it means to lead with faith and integrity. Find full show notes…
more -
444: Boards That Shepherd, Not Just Oversee // Michael Martin, Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA)
What's one of the biggest risks to the health of Christian ministries that often gets ignored? In this episode, Al Lopus sits down with Michael Martin, President of ECFA (Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability), to explore how trust, governance, and leader well-being are deeply...
-
443: Becoming a Redemptive Leader: Surrender, Suffering, and Trusting God's Timing // Rev. Dr. Nicole Massie Martin, Soulfire International Ministries
What if true leadership isn't about chasing success—but about embracing surrender? In this episode, Rev. Dr. Nicole Massie Martin—founder and executive director of Soulfire International Ministries, COO of Christianity Today, and author of Nailing It: Why Successful Leadership Demands Suffering…
more -
442: Ministry on the Edge: A Mental Health Wake-Up Call // Bishop Geoffrey V. Dudley Sr., New Life in Christ Church
When leadership collides with crisis, the results can be both devastating and transformative. In this episode, Bishop Geoffrey V. Dudley Sr.—founding and senior pastor of New Life in Christ Church and author of Leading Through Storms: Successfully Navigating Ministry While Maintaining Your Mental...
-
441: How Leaders Can Thrive in the Unknown // Dr. Tod Bolsinger, AE Sloan Leadership, Inc.
When familiar strategies fall short and the path ahead is uncertain, how do leaders respond with clarity and courage? In this episode, Dr. Tod Bolsinger—founder of AE Sloan Leadership, executive director of the De Pree Center Church Leadership Institute, and associate professor at Fuller...
-
440: 4 Reasons Christian Leaders Should Build Biblically Faithful and Welcoming Cultures // David Bailey, Arrabon
What if racial reconciliation isn't just a side initiative, but central to your calling as a Christian leader? In this compelling conversation, David Bailey, Founder and CEO of Arrabon, unpacks how unity, justice, and spiritual formation are essential to building reconciling communities—and to...
-
439: Inside the 2024 Certified Best Christian Workplaces: Encouragement, Excellence, and Engagement // Tara VanderSande, Doug Waldo, and Cary Humphries, Best Christian Workplaces
What does a flourishing Christian workplace really look like in action? In this episode, three experienced Best Christian Workplaces consultants—Tara VanderSande, Doug Waldo, and Cary Humphries—share behind-the-scenes stories and insights from some of the remarkable organizations named to the…
more -
438: From Feedback to Flourishing: Building a Unified Team Around Mission and Culture // Dr. Jeff Myers and Jeff Wood, Summit Ministries
What happens when a ministry fully aligns its strategy with its mission? In this episode, hear how Summit Ministries President Dr. Jeff Myers and author of Truth Changes Everything, and CFO Jeff Wood are building a culture of trust, collaboration, and engagement—all while equipping the next...
-
437: Healing Workplace Hurt: Restoring Trust and Flourishing Again // Dr. Meryl Herr, Good Works Group, LLC
Workplace hurt is real, but it doesn't have to be the end of the story. In this episode, Dr. Meryl Herr, author of When Work Hurts, shares how leaders can process pain in a faith-centered way, foster emotional and spiritual healing, and build a culture of trust and resilience. Find full show…
more -
436: Why Staff Engagement is the Key to a Thriving Camp & Retreat Ministry // John MacDonald, T Bar M Camps
What if the key to transforming your workplace isn't just new strategies but a shift in culture? In this episode, John MacDonald, President of T Bar M Camps, shares how he and his team built trust, transparency, and alignment with their Christ-centered mission—creating a workplace where employees...
-
435: Essential Traits of a Thriving Church Community // Steve Macchia, Leadership Transformations, Inc.
What if the key to a thriving church isn't just great leadership, but a leader's spiritual health? In this episode, Dr. Steve Macchia, founder and president of Leadership Transformations, Inc., shares insights from his book Becoming a Healthy Church on how soul care, deep community, and servant...
-
434: How Investing in Faculty and Staff Led to Record Enrollment and Giving // Michael Lindsay, Taylor University
What if the secret to lasting organizational success isn't just strategy but a flourishing workplace culture? In this episode, Dr. Michael Lindsay, president of Taylor University, shares how faith-driven leadership, values-based decision-making, and investing in people have led to remarkable…
more -
433: Building a High-Performance Culture: The Role of Leadership and Engagement // Mark Miller
Great workplace culture doesn't happen by accident—it's shaped by leaders who are intentional about fostering an environment where people can thrive. In this episode, leadership expert Mark Miller, and author of Culture Rules: The Leader's Guide to Creating the Ultimate Competitive Advantage,...
-
432: 5 Key Salary and Compensation Trends in Large Churches and Ministries // Susan Griffith Byers, Church Compensation Services
Struggling to keep up with rising compensation demands while staying true to your mission? In this episode, we sit down with Susan Griffith Byers, Owner and Founder of Church Compensation Services, to explore key compensation trends, biblical principles, and practical strategies to help your…
more
About this show
The CALLED TO FLOURISH Podcast from Best Christian Workplaces equips and inspires Christian leaders to transform their workplaces into beacons of hope where faith comes alive, people and organizations flourish, and the Gospel shines through flourishing culture.
Hosted by
Robert Wachter
Categories