Conversations

In episode 4 of Conversations, host Rick Curtis talks with Daryl Price of Noonday Association about building a church-centered association that prioritizes pastor health and leadership development. Hear how shifting to a “church support center” mindset reframes the role of the association, how participation creates ownership among pastors, and why collaboration across churches drives engagement. Daryl also shares practical strategies for assessing church health, rebuilding momentum after disruption, and leading with “invisible leadership” that focuses on impact over recognition. Listen in for clear, actionable insight on strengthening pastors, increasing buy-in, and helping churches flourish

In episode 3 of Conversations, host Rick Curtis sits down with Bob Bumgarner, Lead Missional Strategist of First Coast Churches, to discuss how associations can build a culture of relationships that truly supports pastors. Discover why “don’t pastor alone” drives everything in their network, how prioritizing pastors first leads to stronger churches, and what it looks like to move from simply offering resources to cultivating meaningful connection. Bob shares practical counsel for discouraged AMS leaders, including how to reset through listening, peer relationships, and renewed clarity of calling. Listen in for a clear picture of how relational leadership strengthens associations and helps pa

In episode 2 of Conversations, host Rick Curtis sits down with Bob Bickford, executive director of the Nashville Baptist Association, to unpack real-world strategies for replanting, prioritizing your time, and leading with clarity in complex ministry environments. Pastors and AMS leaders who feel the pressure of urgent needs, plateaued churches, or unclear direction will discover how to move from reactive responses to proactive, strategic leadership. Listen in to gain practical insights on assessing church health, building momentum through early wins, and strengthening relationships that accelerate gospel impact.

Welcome to Conversations, a monthly vodcast for Southern Baptist Associational Missions Strategists and their teams. In episode 1, host Rick Curtis welcomes Andy Addis, lead pastor of CrossPoint Church. Listen in to gain insight into how churches can continue ministry in small, under-resourced communities when full-time pastors and funding are scarce. Andy explains why video-driven, rural multi-site networks exist, how they function as a temporary and developmental solution, and where they fit alongside traditional pastoral models. Tune in to discover clear, practical reasons to pursue collaboration rather than trying to lead alone.