Brentwood Baptist Leadership Podcast: Equipping the Whole Church Staff for Gospel Impact

Our Road to Elevate series continues with a conversation for every pastor who feels like they're the only one holding their ministry together. Darrel Girardier sits down with Roger Severino, Brentwood Baptist's Minister of Leadership Development, to talk about how churches of any size can intentionally identify, equip, and send the next generation of ministry leaders, a conversation you'll get to dig into further at the Elevate Church Conference on September 21 and 22, 2026.Roger and Darrel work through why leadership development is bigger than training staff, the five characteristics Roger looks for before he asks anyone to lead, and what he calls "the filling holes problem," the trap that keeps ministries stuck reacting instead of developing leaders ahead of need. They close with what ten residency cohorts have taught Brentwood Baptist about giving young leaders enough runway to actually grow.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why leadership development is bigger than training staff members: Roger defines it as identifying, equipping, and deploying people into spiritual service, whether that's a staff role or a Sunday morning volunteer postThe mind shift every minister needs from Ephesians 4:11-12: whatever your role, you're in the people-development business, and your ministry area is just the context where you do itThe five characteristics Roger looks for before he asks someone to step into leadership: character, competencies, commitment, calling, and cultureWhat Roger calls "the filling holes problem," and why waiting until a ministry spot is empty to look for a leader keeps churches stuck in survival modeWhy leadership development isn't about delegating what you don't want to do. It starts with modeling the work yourself, then giving away even the things you enjoyWhat ten residency cohorts have taught Brentwood Baptist about how much runway young leaders actually need to grow into their own ministryWhy stretching the residency from one year to two years didn't require more upfront teaching. It required a longer on-ramp to hands-on ministryThe three questions Roger tells every church to answer before starting a residency: what do you want them to know, who do you want them to be, and what do you want them to doMeet the GuestsRoger Severino is the Minister of Leadership Development at Brentwood Baptist, where he oversees the church's ministry residency and has walked with 10 cohorts of residents through two years of hands-on ministry training.Darrel Girardier is the Executive Director of Ministry Resources at Brentwood Baptist, where he oversees the team and resources that help equip pastors and ministry leaders across the church.

As we count down the final weeks to the Elevate Church Conference, our Road to Elevate series continues with a preview of the practical breakout sessions headed your way on September 21 and 22, 2026. This time, Dillon Sherlock sits down with Darrel Girardier to talk about AI and the church: where the real opportunities are, where leaders need wisdom, and how to use these tools without losing sight of what matters most.Darrel breaks down what AI actually is in plain terms, why churches have always been slow to adopt new technology, and what the printing press can teach us about how the church responds when a piece of technology reshapes it. He and Dillon also get honest about where AI is helping churches most right now, why a human always has to stay in the loop, and how to respond to the team member who says AI is the devil. They close with a preview of this year's Elevate breakout: a hands-on look at building a full AI workflow, built for every seat on a church staff, not just the communications team.In this episode, you’ll learn:What AI actually is in plain terms: a prediction engine trained on a massive amount of data, more like a really smart Mad Lib than a crystal ball, and why that distinction matters for how churches use itWhy churches have always been slow to adopt new technology out of fear, and what the printing press can teach us about how the church responds when a technology reshapes it (it doesn't die, it reforms)Why this shift is moving faster than any before it, with new capabilities showing up week to week instead of unfolding over decadesWhere churches are seeing the most success with AI right now: offloading the administrative, non-instinctively-human tasks like forms, emails, and meeting notes so staff can focus on the flesh-and-blood work of ministryWhy AI should never be fully hands off, and how keeping a human checking the work at every step (AI still gets things wrong) keeps the tool trustworthyHow to respond to a team member who says "AI is the devil": you're allowed to hold that belief, but only after you've actually taken the time to understand what the tool is and how it worksMeet the GuestsDillon Sherlock is the Digital Strategy Director at Brentwood Baptist, where he leads how the church puts digital tools and AI-powered workflows to work across marketing and communications.Darrel Girardier is the Executive Director of Ministry Resources at Brentwood Baptist, where he oversees the team and resources that help equip pastors and ministry leaders across the church.

Kristen Patton sits down with Brad Smith to talk about one of the biggest opportunities every church has: walking with parents through a fifth grader's transitional year to help build faith that actually lasts.Kristen and Brad dig into why fifth graders start checking out of typical kids ministry activities, and why that isn't a sign they're losing interest in church. It's a sign they're ready for more responsibility than a sticker chart can offer. They talk through what it looks like to invite kids into real ministry rather than just teaching and entertaining them, what a church risks losing if it misses this window, and how investing in a fifth grader's faith shapes their entire family.In this episode, you'll learn:- Why fifth grade is one of the most pivotal years in a kid's life, with real physical, mental, and emotional change, and why it's easy for a ministry to let that year slip past unnoticed- Why fifth graders start checking out of typical kids ministry activities, and why that disengagement is usually a sign they're craving more responsibility, not less interest in church- Why fifth graders don't need more crafts, stickers, and goldfish. They need real opportunities to lead, like teaching a devotional or a Bible study to younger kids- How Jesus modeled inviting ordinary, unfinished people into real ministry, sending out his disciples before they had it all figured out- What it means for a church to help a fifth grader meaningfully belong instead of just attend, and how that shift changes a kid's whole relationship with the church- What's actually at stake if a church misses this window: bored kids, disciplinary issues that trickle down to younger kids, and the loss of a future leader, missionary, or minister- Why the real risk isn't losing a fifth grader. Their parents still bring them to church. The real risk is losing the moment a child realizes the church needs them- How investing in a fifth grader's faith can ripple out to their entire family, illustrated by a recent baptism story from Brad's church- The endgame of teaching fifth graders to lead: not a better fifth grade year, but a stronger church full of disciples who go on to reproduce themselves in othersMeet the GuestsKristen Patton is a Children's Minister at The Church at Station Hill, where she disciples kids and partners with their parents to help build a faith that lasts well beyond kids ministry.Brad Smith is a Children's Minister at Brentwood Baptist, where he equips kids to take on real leadership and service opportunities long before they age out of his ministry.

Student missions can start to feel like an event on the calendar instead of a way of life. In this episode of the Road to Elevate, Evan Kunz sits down with Billy Mahaffey, our student minister for groups and leadership, to talk about what it actually takes to build a student missions strategy from the ground up, from budgeting and choosing the right partners to helping students carry what they learn on a trip back into their everyday life. This is a preview of their full breakout session at the Elevate Church Conference on September 21 and 22, 2026.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why starting with the "why" matters more than starting with logistics, and how to help students see missions as part of following Jesus rather than a separate activityHow the post-COVID years reset a lot of the missions culture in student ministry, and what it takes to rebuild itWhy Gen Z and Gen Alpha students often think of "sharing the gospel" as street apologetics, and why that definition needs to be reset earlyWhat to look for in a long-term mission partner, and why the same site for years can matter more than a new destination every summerHow to bring parents into the process, not just for safety and logistics, but for their own spiritual investment in their student's tripWhy taking students outside their own city can actually help them live on mission inside itWhat it really looks like behind the scenes, budget surprises, lodging problems, and all, when a mission strategy is still being builtMeet the GuestsEvan Kunz serves as student minister at Brentwood Baptist, where he has spent several years working alongside Billy to build missions into every part of the student ministry's discipleship strategy.Billy Mahaffey serves as student minister for groups and leadership at Brentwood Baptist, where he has led mission teams to Greece, England, and, most recently, Zimbabwe.Register for the Elevate ConferenceThis episode is part of our March focus on worship ministry, leading up to Elevate Church Conference on September 21–22, 2026. Learn more and register at elevatechurchconference.com.

Our Road to Elevate series continues with a conversation every pastor, stewardship leader, and ministry director needs to hear.Darrel Girardier sits down with Ken Schafer, Brentwood Baptist's stewardship minister, to discuss what it takes to build a culture of generosity, previewing one of the breakout sessions at the Elevate Church Conference on September 21 and 22, 2026.Ken starts by separating two words most of us use interchangeably: giving and generosity. From there, he and Darrel work through why money conversations create friction in churches, why a met budget can still hide an unhealthy congregation, and the specific numbers Ken tells every church leader to go find in their own giving data. They close by rethinking a familiar narrative about generational giving and unpacking the difference between giving to a church and giving from worship.In this episode, you'll learn:- The key difference between giving and generosity, and why treating them as interchangeable holds churches back: giving is a transaction, and generosity is a condition of the heart- Why healthy churches treat generosity as part of holistic spiritual development, right alongside Bible study, worship, and prayer, instead of putting it in a lane by itself- Why "our budget is being met" almost never means a church has a healthy culture of generosity- The difference between average giving and median giving, and why median is the more honest, and often more sobering, number for a church to know- The difference between giving to a church and giving from worship, and why that shift changes how a church should talk about money altogether- And more...Meet the GuestsKen Schafer is the Stewardship Minister at Brentwood Baptist, where he helps individuals and the congregation grow into a biblical view of generosity as an act of worship, not just a line in the budget.Darrel Girardier is the Executive Director of Ministry Resources at Brentwood Baptist, where he oversees the team and resources that help equip pastors and ministry leaders across the church.

August kicks off our Road to Elevate series, a month of conversations previewing what you'll actually experience at the Elevate Church Conference on September 21 and 22, 2026. To start things off, Darrel Girardier sits down with Madi Wuebben to answer the most basic question first: what is Elevate?Madi walks through what makes Elevate different from the conferences most church leaders have already tried: breakout content built for every seat on a team, speakers who are still leading in the trenches every week, and a schedule designed so leaders can actually be filled up, not just informed. She and Darrel also talk through this year's new two-day format, cherry-pick a few breakout sessions they're personally excited about, and get honest about what they hope every single attendee walks away with, both in the room and long after the conference ends.In this episode, you’ll learn:What actually makes Elevate different: breakout content built for every role on a team, so a pastor can bring paid staff, volunteers, deacons, and Sunday school teachers, not just come aloneWhy every Elevate speaker, keynote and breakout alike, is currently leading in ministry day to day, at churches ranging from about 100 people to several thousandWhy local, regional connection is baked into the conference, even as it draws partners from as far away as Germany, Brazil, and UtahThe two things Madi hopes every attendee walks away with: genuinely feeling filled up, and getting specific answers for their specific ministry laneWhy 2026 adds a second day, with an extended two-hour workshop on day one and a keynote, more breakouts, and extended Q&A on day twoA few breakout sessions and speakers Madi and Darrel are personally most excited about, from a session on hard conversations to a workshop on planning group ministryThe difference between the one-day and two-day ticket options, and how to think about which one fitsThe bigger vision behind Elevate: not just content for a weekend, but long-term partnerships, like residency programs and seminary connections, between Brentwood Baptist and the churches that attendMeet the GuestsMadi Wuebben is the Promotions Director at Brentwood Baptist, where she leads how Elevate and other Leadership Resources initiatives get in front of the church leaders they're built for.Darrel Girardier is the Executive Director of Ministry Resources at Brentwood Baptist, where he oversees the team and resources that help equip pastors and ministry leaders across the church.

We're wrapping up our month-long series on preaching with a conversation every pastor and Bible teacher needs to hear. Brandon Hayes sits down with Hunter Melton, campus and teaching pastor of The Church at Woodbine, to talk about sermon research: how to use commentaries, AI, and other study tools well, without letting them replace dependence on the Holy Spirit.Hunter walks through his weekly rhythm, the tools he actually uses, and where he draws a hard line with AI in sermon preparation. It's a conversation about being resourced without losing sight of the text, and about pursuing faithfulness over polish.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why being "more resourced than ever" can lead to analysis paralysis, and how to guard against itHunter's weekly rhythm for sermon prep (Monday and Tuesday with the text and the Holy Spirit, Wednesday and Thursday with commentaries and tools)Why he calls commentaries and old sermons his "dead friends," and which resources he trusts (ESV Study Bible, CSB Study Bible, Crossway's Exegetical series, Baker Academic)How to know when "enough is enough" in research, and why languages and research should support a sermon without being seenWhat to do when a Wednesday commentary read reveals you got the text wrongWhere AI can genuinely help (finding illustrations, checking timing), and where it becomes a slippery slope for a preacherWhy Hunter believes AI reshaping a sermon's content or tone crosses a real line, and what's at stake if pastors export their calling to a toolOne concrete step for pastors who love people but struggle to sit down and studyMeet the GuestsBrandon Hays is the campus and teaching pastor of The Church at Harpeth Heights. He's hosting the Brentwood Baptist Leadership Podcast this month, where he talks with pastors and ministry leaders from across Brentwood Baptist about how they lead, teach, and shepherd their people well.Hunter Melton is the campus and teaching pastor of The Church at Woodbine. Known among his fellow campus pastors as one of the most quotable voices at Brentwood Baptist, Hunter brings both conviction and humor to how he studies, prays, and prepares to preach each week.

A great sermon illustration does more than entertain. It helps people see the truth of Scripture clearly enough to carry it out the door. This conversation between two campus and teaching pastors covers what separates an illustration that serves the text from one that just serves the moment, what one guest calls a boneless chicken trying to walk: fun to watch, but it isn't moving anyone anywhere.The episode breaks down a simple, repeatable framework for building illustrations that land: aim at the point being made, focus the story on that point, and take the picture by tying it back to the truth. It also covers when an illustration is actually needed, weighing the pace of a sermon, the people in the room, and the point being made, plus how personal stories can build trust with a congregation without turning the sermon into a memoir.The conversation closes with habits any preacher can borrow: journaling ordinary moments before they're forgotten, keeping a searchable database of stories and Scripture, and using the natural plot arc, rising action, conflict, and resolution, to spot a sermon illustration hiding in an average Tuesday.In this episode, you’ll learn:The three-step framework for building an illustration that clarifies instead of distracts: aim, focus, and take the picture.How to tell when a sermon actually needs an illustration, based on pace, people, and the point you're making.Why personal stories build trust with a congregation, and how to keep them from becoming self-serving.A simple test for whether a personal illustration has crossed a line: does it elevate you, or does it elevate the truth you're preaching?How to build a habit of noticing illustrations in daily life, through journaling, photos, and a simple database.Why bookending a sermon, opening and closing with the same illustration, can bring a whole message home, as long as you don't force it.Where to find illustrations you can trust, from personal experience to historical events to AI-assisted research, and how to verify each one before you preach it.Meet the GuestsBrandon Abbott serves as campus and teaching pastor at The Church at West End. He has spent years studying the craft of storytelling, from competitive public speaking in high school to a running database that tracks every illustration he has ever preached, tagged by tone, text, and last use. 

In this episode, Brandon Hays continues his monthly conversation on preaching with Jay Strother, senior pastor of Brentwood Baptist, this time zeroing in on application: the moment a sermon has to leave the worship center and start showing up in someone's Monday morning. Jay walks through the "hook, book, look, took" outline he's used since seminary, and the head, heart, and hands framework he writes out before he ever starts a sermon, to make sure a message doesn't just inform people but moves them to respond.The conversation also gets honest about where application goes wrong. Jay talks through the temptation to turn a text into a moralistic checklist, using the David and Goliath story as an example of application that misses the gospel underneath it, and shares Charles Spurgeon's image of every village road eventually leading to London to explain why every passage should lead somewhere near the cross. Jay and Brandon also swap real stories, from a whole church setting phone alarms for 1:14 as a daily prayer reminder, to a Revelation 4 sermon that ended not with a to-do list but with a room full of grieving people standing to worship because God is still on his throne.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why preaching information without transformation leaves people with knowledge but not wisdomThe hook, book, look, took outline, and how "took" is where most sermons run out of timeHow the head, heart, and hands framework shapes application before a sermon is even writtenWhy application built on moralism instead of the gospel eventually falls apart, using David and Goliath as an exampleHow to write application for a whole spectrum of listeners, from the person new to church to the retired pastor in the back rowPractical ways to make application memorable, including a citywide prompt built around one verse and a phone alarmSimple habits, like a running story file and a nightly journal, that help a pastor build a stockpile of application over timeMeet the GuestsBrandon Hays is the Campus and Teaching Pastor at Harpeth Heights, one of Brentwood Baptist's nine campuses.Jay Strother is senior pastor of Brentwood Baptist, where he's served for 24 years across churches of every size before leading the congregation's nine campuses today.

In this episode, Brandon Hays sits down with Jay Strother, senior pastor of Brentwood Baptist, to talk about something every preacher wrestles with: how far ahead to plan a sermon calendar. Jay walks through why Brentwood Baptist plans its preaching 12 to 14 months out, starting with Easter as the anchor point, and how a team of pastors gathers for a planning retreat that includes prayer, an honest look back at the past year, and a Shark Tank-style pitch session before anyone puts a series on the calendar.The conversation also gets practical about what happens when life doesn't cooperate with a plan. Jay shares stories of calling an audible during a season of grief, letting a preaching calendar simmer for months before locking it in, and aligning kids ministry, students, and worship around the same sermon series so families hear one message instead of several disconnected ones. For pastors who have never planned more than a few weeks ahead, Jay's encouragement is simple: start small, and let the process build from there.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why stepping back to plan a year of preaching creates more room to follow the Holy Spirit, not lessHow Brentwood Baptist plans preaching 12 to 14 months out, and why Easter is the anchor point for the whole calendarWhat actually happens at a preaching-team retreat: prayer, a look back at the past year, a Shark Tank-style pitch session, and a voteHow to build in accountability for calling an audible on a planned series without preaching on impulseHow aligning kids ministry, students, groups, and worship around the same sermon series deepens discipleship in the homeWhere to start if you've never planned more than a few weeks aheadMeet the GuestsBrandon Hays is the Campus and Teaching Pastor at Harpeth Heights, one of Brentwood Baptist's nine campuses.Jay Strother is senior pastor of Brentwood Baptist, where he's served for 24 years across churches of every size before leading the congregation's nine campuses today.

Every preacher starts by sounding like someone else. The slow, winding work of ministry is learning to sound like yourself.In this episode, Brandon Hayes sits down with David Hannah to talk about finding your voice in the pulpit and why that work is about far more than communication style. David brings an unusual path to preaching, from preacher's kid to attorney to Bible teacher to pastor, and he's honest about what it has taught him: your voice is shaped by the people you actually know, your confidence rests in who God made you to be, and authenticity is no longer optional for a generation that can see through a facade in seconds. They get practical, too, on outlines versus manuscripts, understanding your sermon rather than memorizing it, watching game film, and receiving feedback without losing your nerve.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why finding your voice starts with confidence in who God made you to be, not in copying a communicator you admireHow your context and your congregation, the people you actually do life with, shape the way you preachThe difference between memorizing your sermon and understanding it, and why that's where natural delivery comes fromHow to grow as a communicator without getting trapped in comparisonWhy authenticity and a willingness to say "I don't know" matter more for this generation than any before itWhat appropriate vulnerability looks like in the pulpit, and who to run it by firstHow to receive hard feedback with humility instead of defensivenessThe two things David tells every newer preacher: trust the voice God gave you, and watch the game filmMeet the GuestsDavid Hannah is Campus and Teaching Pastor at The Church at Lockeland Springs, an East Nashville congregation where, in his words, it's "impossible to not know and be known," and his road to the pulpit ran through law school and years in litigation before ministry.Brandon Hayes is Campus and Teaching Pastor at The Church at Harpeth Heights, a preacher honest enough to admit he still goes back and forth on whether to use notes, whose advice to anyone nervous about preaching without them is simple: leave the iPad on the pew and just go do it.

What does it really look like to help someone move from sitting in the pew to serving the body? In this episode, Stephanie Prince sits down with Michelle Dyer to talk about identifying gifts and helping people use them well in the life of the church. Michelle makes the case that calling is terrain we have to tread, and that church leaders owe their people more than a vague encouragement to "get out there and serve." They dig into the practical tools, assessments, and coaching relationships that turn good intentions into real engagement, and they share stories of what happens when a leader takes the time to see a gift in someone and call it out.This conversation is part of our month on connections, helping churches build pathways for people to belong, serve, and grow. It's all leading up to the Elevate Church Conference on September 21 and 22, 2026.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why helping people find their gifts changes the culture, passion, and mission of the whole church, not just one volunteer slotWhat happens to a church's vibrancy when people never discover where they're meant to contributeHow to pair the concept of calling (Ephesians 4) with practical tools so people aren't left high and unclearThe four lenses Brentwood Baptist uses to help people explore who they are in Christ: spiritual gifts, personality, passion, and skillsWhy the Discover coach relationship, led by lay leaders rather than staff, is a key piece of the membership processHow clear on-ramps, defined roles, and diligent follow-up move people from interested to involvedWhy training lay leaders to see behind the curtain deepens their own sense of belonging and discipleshipHow intentional leaders spot a gift in someone and shepherd it, and the fifteen-year volunteer story that started with picking up trashWhat an empowered culture looks like when every member is a ministerMeet the GuestsStephanie Prince is the Connections Minister at The Church at Station Hill, where she helps people find their place to belong, serve, and grow. Michele Dyer is the Connections Minister at Brentwood Baptist, where she's spent years developing tools, assessments, and coaching pathways to help members discover how God has wired them to serve.

Membership has a branding problem. For a lot of people, the word sounds like a gym contract or a warehouse club card, something transactional you sign up for and forget. In this episode of the Brentwood Baptist Leadership Podcast, Stephanie Prince sits down with Michelle Dyer to reclaim what church membership was always meant to be: a family you belong to, a mission you commit to, and a body you contribute to.Michelle walks through how Brentwood Baptist has refined its membership process over 20 years, why systems and processes actually communicate a church's values, and how a clear pathway helps people move from simply attending to fully belonging. She also shares where to start if your church has no membership process. Her advice is refreshingly practical: make it simple, make it scalable, and start with the bare bones.Whether you are reworking a membership process you have had for decades or building one for the first time, this conversation will help you connect people to their gifts, their calling, and their church family.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why church membership is countercultural, and why that's exactly why it mattersHow "people rise to the level of expectation" should shape the way you talk about membershipWhat a healthy membership process communicates spiritually and practicallyHow to build a process that's relational instead of transactional, so it never feels like institutional hoops to jump throughThe simplest place to start if your church has no membership process yetHow connecting people to their gifts and passions transforms volunteers into ministersWhat the Five G's (gospel conversations, groups, going, giving, and gathering) look like as markers of a growing discipleThe warning signs that it's time to reevaluate or rebuild your membership processMeet the GuestsStephanie Prince serves as the Connections Minister at The Church at Station Hill. She brings a practitioner's perspective to every conversation, asking the questions church leaders are actually wrestling with.Michelle Dyer serves at Brentwood Baptist as the Connections Minister, helping people discover their gifts and find their place in the life of the church. She's passionate about helping believers move from simply attending to fully belonging.

On this episode of the Brentwood Baptist Leadership Podcast, Stephanie Prince sits down with Shannon Moore to discuss one of the most important challenges churches face: helping people move from being first-time guests to fully engaged members of the church family.While many churches focus heavily on first impressions, Shannon explains why hospitality is only the beginning. Healthy churches create intentional pathways that help people find community, discover their purpose, and take meaningful next steps toward discipleship.Whether you're leading guest services, groups, membership, or simply want to create a more welcoming culture in your church, this conversation offers practical ideas for helping people belong, grow, and engage in God's mission.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why hospitality is only the first step of discipleshipThe biggest barriers keeping guests from becoming engaged membersHow biblical community helps people move from attending to belongingWhy clear next steps matter more than complicated processesPractical ways to improve guest follow-up and engagementHow Discover coaching creates meaningful relationships and accountabilityThe role serving plays in helping people find ownership in the churchWhy healthy churches create cultures where everyone welcomes guestsHow to build systems that help people without losing the relational elementThe difference between a friendly church and a truly welcoming churchMeet the GuestsStephanie PrinceStephanie serves at The Church at Station Hill and helps churches think strategically about connections, discipleship pathways, and helping people take meaningful next steps in their faith journey.Shannon MooreShannon Moore serves at The Church at Avenue South, helping people connect to biblical community through groups, membership, and discipleship. With decades of ministry experience, Shannon is passionate about creating environments where people are seen, known, and engaged in the life of the church.

On this episode of the Brentwood Baptist Leadership Podcast, Stephanie Prince is joined by Kiefer Johnson to talk about first impressions, hospitality, and what it really means to create a welcoming church environment.From parking lots and signage to remembering someone’s name, this conversation explores the small details that often make the biggest impact. Together, they unpack how intentional hospitality helps people feel seen, known, and invited into genuine Gospel-centered community.Whether your church is large or small, this episode offers practical ways to help guests move from feeling nervous and overwhelmed to feeling connected and cared for.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why first impressions begin long before someone enters the worship center The difference between being friendly and being truly welcoming How signage, volunteers, and environments reduce anxiety for guests Practical ways to create a culture of invitation and hospitality Why remembering someone’s name can deeply impact their sense of identity How consistency builds trust and long-term community The spiritual importance of hospitality and connection ministry Simple steps churches can take this Sunday to improve first impressionsMeet the GuestsStephanie PrinceStephanie serves in connections ministry at Brentwood Baptist and is passionate about helping churches create environments where people feel seen, known, and welcomed into community.Kiefer JohnsonKefir Johnson serves in connections ministry and guest services at Brentwood Baptist Church, helping cultivate welcoming environments that make it easier for people to take their next step into the life of the church.

On this episode of the Brentwood Baptist Leadership Podcast, Bill Ferrell is joined by Jay Fennel for an honest conversation about one of the hardest parts of leadership: difficult conversations. From team tension and staff conflict to emotional meetings and misunderstood intentions, they unpack practical ways leaders can pursue clarity, care, and resolution without avoiding the issue or damaging relationships.Whether you lead a large staff team or serve in a smaller church context, this conversation offers practical tools to help you shepherd people well, strengthen trust, and lead with both truth and empathy.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why avoiding hard conversations often creates bigger problems later How clarity and care can strengthen trust on a team Questions every leader should ask before entering a difficult conversation Common mistakes leaders make during conflict How to balance empathy with honesty What to do when emotions rise in a conversation Why mutual understanding matters more than “winning” Practical ways to prepare for conversations that move people forwardMeet the GuestsBill FerrellBill serves at Brentwood Baptist and is passionate about helping church leaders build healthy teams, lead with wisdom, and strengthen church culture through practical leadership tools.Jay FennelJay serves on the leadership team at Brentwood Baptist and brings years of ministry experience in shepherding teams, developing leaders, and helping churches pursue healthy staff culture and unity.

Register now for the Elevate Church Conference on September 21–22, 2026.On this episode of the Brentwood Baptist Leadership Podcast, Bill Ferrell is joined by Brian Coates to discuss one of the most overlooked leadership tools: your calendar. Together, they unpack how a leader’s schedule reveals priorities, shapes team culture, and impacts long-term health. From protecting white space for strategic thinking to building sustainable rhythms for family and soul care, this conversation offers practical insight for leaders trying to lead intentionally instead of reactively. They also explore common warning signs of overload, how to prioritize meetings and commitments, and why healthy leadership requires margin, reflection, and the ability to say no. Whether you lead a church staff, ministry team, or organization, this episode will help you rethink how your calendar supports your mission. In this episode, you’ll learn:Why your calendar reflects your actual prioritiesThe difference between reactive leadership and intentional leadershipHow to create margin for strategic thinkingWarning signs that your schedule is becoming unsustainablePractical ways to prioritize meetings and commitmentsWhy soul care is a leadership issue, not just a personal oneHow healthy leaders protect time for family, rest, and reflectionThe importance of saying no in leadershipMeet the GuestsBill FerrellBill serves at Brentwood Baptist and helps lead organizational strategy, leadership development, and team culture. Passionate about healthy leadership, Bill regularly coaches leaders on building sustainable rhythms and healthy teams.Brian CoatesBrian serves as an Executive Pastor at Brentwood Baptist, helping oversee ministry strategy, staff leadership, and operational direction across the church. He is passionate about building healthy teams, creating intentional leadership rhythms, and helping leaders steward their time well.

One-on-ones are not just meetings. They are one of the most important rhythms a leader can build.In this episode of the Brentwood Baptist Leadership Podcast, Bill Ferrell sits down with Darrel Girardier to unpack why one-on-ones are essential for building trust, developing people, and creating healthy teams.They discuss how to structure one-on-ones, what questions actually lead to growth, and how to avoid the common mistakes that cause leaders to drift into miscommunication or disconnection.Whether you’re leading a fast-paced team or just getting started with leadership rhythms, this episode will give you a practical framework you can implement right away.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why one-on-ones are one of the most important leadership rhythms How one-on-ones build trust and communicate care The difference between status updates and real conversations Why small “micro-corrections” prevent major issues later How to tailor one-on-ones to each team member A simple framework: affirm, correct, and coach The most powerful questions to ask in one-on-ones How to create clarity and remove roadblocks for your team Why documentation creates transparency and trust Common mistakes leaders make (and how to avoid them) How often you should meet, and why consistency matters Meet the GuestsBill Ferrell – Bill brings decades of leadership experience and helps teams build strong systems, healthy culture, and effective leadership rhythms. Darrel Girardier – Darrel serves in leadership and communications at Brentwood Baptist, helping teams operate with clarity, strategy, and intentional development.

Healthy teams don’t grow through annual reviews alone. They grow through consistent, honest, and relational feedback.In this episode of the Brentwood Baptist Leadership Podcast, Bill Ferrell sits down with Brandon Hayes to discuss what it takes to build a culture where feedback is normal, helpful, and rooted in care.They unpack why leaders often avoid feedback, how to build trust with your team, and practical ways to make feedback a regular part of your leadership rhythm, not just something reserved for annual reviews.Whether you’re leading a large staff or a small team, this conversation will help you create a healthier culture where people can grow, develop, and thrive together.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why most leaders avoid feedback, and how to overcome it The difference between a feedback culture and formal reviews How trust makes honest conversations possible Why feedback should be immediate, not delayed How to balance encouragement and accountability Simple questions to ask in one-on-ones that lead to growth Why specific feedback is more helpful than general criticism How to navigate emotional or difficult feedback conversations Practical ways to document progress without feeling corporate Why regular “one-degree corrections” prevent major problemsMeet the GuestsBill Ferrell – Bill brings decades of leadership experience and helps teams build healthy systems, strong culture, and effective leadership rhythms. Brandon Hayes – Brandon serves as a campus and teaching pastor, leading teams and developing leaders with a focus on growth, care, and intentional discipleship.Register for the Elevate ConferenceThis episode is part of our March focus on worship ministry, leading up to Elevate Church Conference on September 21–22, 2026. Learn more and register at elevatechurchconference.com.

Healthy churches do not happen by accident. In this episode of the Brentwood Baptist Leadership Podcast, Brian Coates sits down with Fady Al-Hagal to talk about what church health really looks like and why multiplication begins with healthy leadership, healthy culture, and healthy disciple-making rhythms.Together, they unpack common warning signs of decline, false indicators of success, and practical ways churches can assess their health honestly. From fractured leadership to mission drift, this conversation offers practical tools for pastors and ministry leaders who want to lead with clarity, humility, and purpose.If you’ve ever wondered whether your church is truly healthy or simply staying busy, this episode will help you take an honest look at what matters most.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why busyness is not always a sign of health The difference between healthy growth and mission drift Common false indicators churches rely on How fractured leadership and culture can lead to decline The three marks of a healthy church: make, mature, and multiply disciples Why healthy rhythms matter more than scattered programs How the “5Gs” can create clarity in your discipleship pathway Practical next steps for churches that need revitalization or renewal Why pastors need trusted voices, cohorts, and healthy accountability Real examples of churches that experienced renewed health and growthMeet the GuestsBrian Coates – Brian leads church growth and campus strategy at Brentwood Baptist and helps churches think strategically about leadership, multiplication, and health. Fady Al-Hagal – Fady serves as Multiplication Minister at Brentwood Baptist, helping churches across Middle Tennessee assess health, strengthen leadership, and move toward revitalization and multiplication.

Across Middle Tennessee, God is moving. Churches are navigating cultural shifts, leadership gaps, and changing communities—but they’re also seeing incredible opportunities for multiplication and renewal. In this conversation, we explore what’s encouraging, what’s challenging, and what it looks like to build a kingdom-first mindset across our region. In this episode, you’ll learn:What’s encouraging in Middle Tennessee churches right now Why college ministry and young leaders are driving fresh momentum Common challenges facing churches across the region How cooperation between churches fuels kingdom impact The role of humility, patience, and prayer in multiplication How churches can take practical next steps toward renewal and partnership Why a kingdom mindset is essential for healthy growthMeet the GuestsBrian Coates - Host of the Brentwood Baptist Leadership Podcast, helping equip leaders and strengthen churches.William Maxwell - Chief Administrative Officer at the Tennessee Baptist Mission Board, focused on supporting churches through leadership development, revitalization, and multiplication.

On this episode of the Brentwood Baptist Leadership Podcast, Brian Coates is joined by Aaron Bryant to talk about one of the clearest markers of a healthy church: sending your best leaders, not holding onto them.Together, they unpack the tension every leader feels: wanting to keep strong, capable people while knowing the mission calls us to release them. This conversation is part of our multiplication series leading up to the Elevate Church Conference on September 21–22.If you’re building a team, developing leaders, or wrestling with what it means to lead with open hands, this episode offers practical insight rooted in real ministry experience. In this episode, you’ll learn:- Why churches instinctively hold onto leaders instead of sending them - How to build a culture that values multiplication from day one - What it looks like to develop leaders with long-term vision - How to prepare your congregation for sending, not just keeping - The real cost of sending leaders—and why it’s still worth it - Practical ways to coach, invest in, and release leaders well - How humility shapes a multiplying leadership cultureMeet the Guests- Brian Coates, Senior Executive Pastor at Brentwood Baptist Church- Aaron Bryant, Campus and Teaching Pastor at The Church at Avenue South and North Region Lead Pastor

Every church wants to be faithful to where God has placed them. But sometimes, faithfulness looks like partnership.In this episode of the Brentwood Baptist Leadership Podcast, Brian Coates and Aaron Bryant talk through when church mergers actually make sense, and when they don’t. This is not about growth for growth’s sake. It’s about discerning where God is at work and how churches can come alongside one another for greater kingdom impact.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why “merger” isn’t the best starting point—and what posture matters moreHow to discern if partnership is necessary or if support is enoughWhat healthy churches look for before stepping into a mergerWhy humility is essential on both sides of the conversationHow to lead your congregation through uncertainty and changeThe role of prayer and communication in building unityThe difference between vision and strategy—and why it mattersMeet the GuestsBrian Coates, Senior Executive Pastor at Brentwood Baptist ChurchAaron Bryant, Campus and Teaching Pastor at The Church at Avenue South and North Region Lead PastorRegister for the Elevate ConferenceThis episode is part of our March focus on worship ministry, leading up to Elevate Church Conference on September 21–22, 2026. Learn more and register at elevatechurchconference.com.

Leadership development does not happen by accident.In this episode of the Brentwood Baptist Leadership Podcast, Mack Burns is joined by Nick Gonzales to talk about developing the next generation of worship leaders. They walk through a simple framework (detect, develop, deploy) and unpack what it looks like to identify servant-hearted leaders, slow down the process, and build pathways that form shepherds, not just musicians.This conversation is especially helpful if you feel stretched, have limited volunteers, or know you need to invest in younger leaders but are not sure where to start.In this episode, you’ll learn:- The moment a worship leader realizes the job is multiplication, not just leading songs- What to look for when “detecting” potential leaders (and why it’s often backstage)- How to invite hesitant, humble leaders into growth without rushing them- The danger of elevating someone too quickly and how the platform can distort- Why you don’t need to be a musical expert to develop musicians- How shepherding happens through presence, trust, and relational equity- A practical first step you can take this week to begin developing leadersMeet the GuestsMack Burns – Worship Minister at The Church at West FranklinNick Gonzales – Worship Minister at The Church at Avenue SouthRegister for the Elevate ConferenceThis episode is part of our March focus on worship ministry, leading up to Elevate Church Conference on September 21–22, 2026. Learn more and register at elevatechurchconference.com.

On this episode of the Brentwood Baptist Leadership Podcast, Mack Burns is joined by Luke Roman from The Church at Station Hill for an honest and practical conversation about what it means to shepherd a worship team.Together they explore the rhythms, responsibilities, and spiritual priorities that shape healthy worship ministries. From tending to burnout and protecting team culture to redefining success beyond musical excellence, this episode offers encouragement and real tools for leaders who want to care for people, not just performances.If you serve in worship ministry or lead creative teams, this conversation will help you think more deeply about presence, soul care, and sustainable leadership.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why worship leadership is pastoral leadershipThe three priorities of shepherding a team: presence, provision, and protectionHow focusing only on skill development can lead to burnoutPractical rhythms for soul care, including daily, weekly, monthly, and annual Sabbath practicesHow to create safe, vulnerable team environments that foster growthWays to redefine success beyond musical excellenceHow leaders can guard their own identity and spiritual healthA simple first step for leaders who feel spiritually dry or stretched thinMeet the GuestsMack Burns – Worship Minister at The Church at West Franklin Luke Roman – Worship Minister at The Church at Station HillRegister for the Elevate ConferenceThis episode is part of our March focus on worship ministry, leading up to Elevate Church Conference on September 21–22, 2026. Learn more and register at elevatechurchconference.com.

A healthy worship team should reflect the body of Christ.In this episode of the Brentwood Baptist Leadership Podcast, Mack Burns and Travis Cottrell talk about what it takes to lead a truly multi-generational worship team. From song selection and vocal ranges to platform representation and relational equity, they explore how to bridge generational differences without falling into people-pleasing.You’ll hear why multi-generational worship is not just a preference but a theological conviction, how to create singing experiences that serve everyone in the room, and what it looks like to honor every generation without losing unity.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why multi-generational worship reflects the body of ChristThe biggest generational differences in singing styles and expectationsHow to plan sets that create space for everyone to engageThe difference between people-pleasing and speaking your people’s languageHow to build relational equity across generationsWhy humility and representation matter on the platformOne practical first step if generational tension exists on your teamMeet the GuestsMack Burns – Worship Minister at The Church at West FranklinTravis Cottrell – Worship Minister at Brentwood Baptist ChurchRegister for the Elevate ConferenceThis episode is part of our March focus on worship ministry, leading up to Elevate Church Conference on September 21–22, 2026. Learn more and register at elevatechurchconference.com.

Worship ministry is more than music. It is people.In this episode of the Brentwood Baptist Leadership Podcast, Mack Burns sits down with Travis Cottrell to discuss what it takes to lead a worship team with a healthy culture, clear communication, and genuine care for the people behind the platform.Travis shares simple, foundational markers of a healthy team, how to set vision and priorities (like authenticity over performance), and how to correct with encouragement without crushing someone’s spirit. They also talk about practical ways to care for volunteers, build sustainable rhythms, and remind your team that every Sunday is a spiritual moment in someone’s life.In this episode, you’ll learn:The clearest signs of a healthy worship team cultureHow to shape culture by sharing vision and priorities consistentlyWhy authenticity should always come before performative excellenceHow to give creatives room while keeping the goal people-focusedA wise approach to hard conversations that correct without crushingHow to notice when someone needs rest and build sustainable serving rhythmsOne simple step worship leaders can take this month to lead betterMeet the GuestsMack Burns – Worship Minister at The Church at West FranklinTravis Cottrell – Worship Minister at Brentwood Baptist ChurchRegister for the Elevate ConferenceThis episode is part of our March focus on worship ministry, leading up to Elevate Church Conference on September 21–22, 2026. Learn more and register at elevatechurchconference.com.

Communications is where vision meets execution. And without a system, things get chaotic fast.In this episode of the Brentwood Baptist Leadership Podcast, we walk through the project management stack that helps our communications team serve nine campuses with clarity, consistency, and healthy margin.We break down our full process, from a single intake form called the Commreq to project build-outs in ClickUp, tiering projects by priority, setting realistic lead times, and creating visibility with a marketing grid. Whether you are a one-person communications team or leading a larger staff, this conversation will help you build a system that supports people instead of burning them out.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why a single intake point reduces chaos and missed detailsWhat a Commreq is and why it becomes the single source of truthThe non-negotiables ministries need before promotion starts, including dates, location, and registrationHow to set and communicate realistic lead timesA tier system for deciding what gets the most supportHow to handle late requests without creating burnoutWhy deadlines are a leadership culture issue, not just a communications issueHow time estimates help teams protect margin and stay humanClickUpPaperform, Jotform, Google Forms, Microsoft Forms (intake form options)Project tiering (A–F)Marketing grid and visibility dashboardsMeet the GuestsDillon Sherlock – Associate Communications Director at Brentwood Baptist ChurchMadi Wuebben – Promotions Director at Brentwood Baptist ChurchResources MentionedClickUpPaperform, Jotform, Google Forms, Microsoft Forms (intake form options)Project tiering (A–F)Marketing grid and visibility dashboardsRegister for the Elevate ConferenceThis episode is part of our ongoing conversations leading up to Elevate: A Conference for the Whole Church Staff. Join us as we equip teams with practical tools to advance their mission—together. Learn more at elevatechurchconference.com

Register Now for the Elevate Conference | September 9elevatechurchconference.comOn this episode of the Brentwood Baptist Leadership Podcast, Dillon Sherlock is joined by Mallory, Senior Graphic Designer at Brentwood Baptist Church, to talk about what church branding really means.This conversation goes beyond logos and colors. It explores how clarity around mission shapes visuals, messaging, photography, sermon series design, and even staff alignment. From the three-question framework to the 80/20 rule, Dillon and Mallory share practical tools that help churches create unity without stifling creativity.If your team has ever wrestled with consistency, campus personality, or competing design preferences, this episode will give you a clear place to start.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:Why brand is about clarity, not controlThe three-question framework that guides every major campaignHow unified design builds trust across campusesWhat the 80/20 rule means for church creativityHow to reduce conflict by anchoring decisions in missionFirst steps smaller churches can take to build brand alignmentThe Three-Question FrameworkThe 80/20 Rule for Brand Consistencyelevatechurchconference.com Meet the GuestDillon Sherlock – Associate Communications Director at Brentwood Baptist ChurchMallory Nall – Senior Graphic Designer at Brentwood Baptist ChurchResources MentionedRegister for the Elevate ConferenceThis episode is part of our ongoing conversations leading up to Elevate: A Conference for the Whole Church Staff. Join us as we equip teams with practical tools to advance their mission—together.Learn more at elevatechurchconference.com

Social media can feel overwhelming, especially for small and mid-sized churches with limited time, staff, and resources. In this episode of the Brentwood Baptist Leadership Podcast, Dillon Sherlock is joined by Kat Howard and Laila Al-Hagal to talk honestly about what a healthy, sustainable church social media strategy actually looks like.Rather than chasing trends or overproducing content, this conversation focuses on showing real church life, staying grounded in mission, and building systems that serve people—not burn them out.If you’ve ever wondered what to post, how often to post, or how to keep social media from becoming another source of pressure, this episode is for you.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why authenticity consistently outperforms overproduced contentHow iPhone footage can be one of your most powerful toolsA simple content pillar framework to guide weekly postingHow often churches should realistically post on social mediaWays to approach event promotion without turning your feed into a bulletin boardTools that help small teams stay consistent without burning outDillon Sherlock – Associate Communications Director at Brentwood Baptist ChurchKat Howard – Digital Content ManagerLaila Al-Hagal – Digital Content ManagerMeta Business SuiteCapCutSprout SocialOpus (AI sermon clipping tool)Meet the GuestsResources MentionedRegister for the Elevate ConferenceThis episode is part of our ongoing conversations leading up to Elevate: A Conference for the Whole Church Staff. Join us as we equip teams with practical tools to advance their mission—together.Learn more at elevatechurchconference.com

How can churches move beyond polished performances to create worship gatherings where people truly encounter God’s presence? In this episode of the Elevate Podcast, Wade Owens, Nic Gonzales, and Charley Lowry share practical insights on building a responsive worship culture. From unity with pastors to song selection, prayerful preparation, and creating space for the Spirit, you’ll hear real stories and practical tools to help your congregation engage deeply in worship.

The “giving moment” isn’t a throwaway transition—it’s a weekly chance to disciple your church. In this episode, Madi Wuebben talks with Stewardship Minister Ken Schafer and Pastor David Hannah about planning the moment, delivering it with excellence, and keeping its purpose centered on spiritual formation. You’ll learn how to invite first-time givers, encourage consistency, avoid announcement-only traps, and share stories that form hearts (not just fund budgets). Perfect for worship leaders, pastors, and hosts who want to connect generosity directly to God’s mission.

What makes Sunday worship more than just a service? In this episode of the Elevate Podcast, Ashton Burgos, Jay Strother, and Travis Cottrell explore how churches can plan Spirit-led, strategic gatherings that form disciples over time. From choosing songs to creating space for prayer and collaboration, they share practical insights and stories to help your church make the most of its weekly worship.

In this episode, Jay Strother and Aaron Bryant unpack the impact of preaching through the entire Bible in one year across all nine campuses of Brentwood Baptist. From planning and unifying the teaching team to watching spiritual maturity take root in the congregation, they share lessons learned, powerful moments, and encouragement for any church leader considering a similar journey.

Aligning your church around a clear mission and vision isn’t optional—it’s essential for healthy growth and unified leadership. In this episode of the Elevate Podcast, host Brian Coates is joined by Bill Ferrell and John Joseph to discuss what effective church vision alignment looks like in a multi-campus ministry context. Together, they unpack why mission and vision matter beyond buzzwords—and how they shape real decisions about calendars, budgets, staff roles, and ministry goals. You’ll learn how Brentwood Baptist keeps leaders focused and aligned by translating churchwide vision into campus-level strategy. The conversation includes practical tips for avoiding mission drift, building strategic clarity, and helping every team member see how their role fits into the bigger picture. Whether you're leading a growing staff, launching a new campus, or re-centering your leadership team, this episode offers actionable strategies for aligning mission, vision, and ministry execution. Episode Guests:Brian Coates: Senior Executive PastorBill Ferrell: Executive Pastor for Central SupportJohn Joseph: Campus and Teaching Pastor at the Church of Station Hill 00:00 Defining Church Mission Clearly03:50 Define Goals and Vision07:59 Aligning Ministry Roles with Mission10:22 Clarifying Church Mission and Strategy15:26 Engaging with Ministers Regularly18:38 Adapting Church Strategy by Campus21:41 Unified Vision Enhances Church Goals25:06 Preventing Mission Drift in Churches29:33 Church Leadership: Clarity and Unity30:25 Aligning Church Leadership Visions  Timestamps:Resources Mentioned:Proverbs – “Where there is no vision, the people will perish”The Great Commission – Matthew 28:16–20 (Referenced as Jesus giving a clear mission)Genesis 1 – God gives the first mission to humanity (exercising dominion, filling the earth)Elevate Conference – September 9 at Brentwood Baptist in Nashville, TN

Hiring the right people for your church staff is about more than filling a role—it’s about building a healthy, mission-driven team.In this episode of the Elevate Podcast, Darrel Girardier is joined by Michele Dyer and Bill Ferrell to unpack what church leaders need to know about hiring well. From red flags and personality assessments to interview tips and culture fit, this conversation offers practical guidance for anyone hiring in ministry.Whether you're building a new team or refining your process, you'll walk away with real tools for better church staff hiring.How to Hire the Right People for Your Church StaffWelcome to a brand-new episode of the Elevate Podcast! Today, we're diving into the art—and science—of hiring well for ministry teams. Host Darrel Girardier (Communications Director at Brentwood Baptist Church) is joined by staff culture shapers Michele Dyer and Bill Ferrell for a conversation that goes way beyond filling empty seats. Together, they unpack what it really means to find a “good fit”—balancing character, chemistry, calling, and competency to build healthy teams.  DISC Profile – Personality assessment tool frequently referenced as an aid in hiring and team dynamicsMyers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) – Personality assessment tool used to evaluate candidates and team fitPLACE Ministry Assessment – Combines DISC, spiritual gifts, and passions for ministry placementStrengths Assessments – Various tools noted by Michelle Dyer for understanding team gifts and wiringEnneagram – Utilized as part of personality mapping (e.g., “Enneagram 7”)Working Genius – Team productivity and strengths assessment mentioned for hiring insightGary Chapman’s “Animals” Personality Tool – A simplified, animal-themed personality toolChristian Coaching Program (Brentwood Baptist/ICF) – Certification program for Christian coachingElevate Conference – Annual ministry leadership event at Brentwood Baptist Church (elevatechurchconference.com)Jay’s Leadership Summit – A reference point for organizational vision and teaching at Brentwood Baptist Listen in as they share personal stories and practical insights from their years of ministry staff experience. You’ll hear why personality assessments matter, how to use them wisely, and why understanding both team and organizational culture is crucial. The episode is loaded with candid advice on red flags to watch for, how to weigh hard skills versus soft skills, and the kinds of interview questions that really make a difference. Whether you're leading a team, hiring your first staff member, or just want your church to flourish, this episode will equip you with actionable tools and wisdom from leaders who’ve been there.Ready to level up your hiring process? Let's get started!Episode Guests:Darrel Girardier: Communications DirectorMichele Dyer: Connection MinisterBill Ferrell: Executive Pastor for Central SupportTimestamps:00:00 "Elevate Podcast: Building a Ministry Team"06:19 Hiring for Chemistry Fit07:52 Assessing Team Fit: Strategies11:23 "Encouraging Truth in Leadership"15:33 Hiring: Balancing Skills and Roles19:30 Interview Question Strategies22:27 Prioritizing Organizational Culture25:47 Learning from Predecessors26:52 Leadership Self-Reflection and Team Growth30:47 Hiring for Church Passion33:01 Committed Candidate Embraces Church VisionResources Mentioned:

Feeling discouraged in ministry?   Aaron Bryant: Campus and Teaching Pastor at The Church at Avenue SouthJay Strother: Senior Pastor of Brentwood Baptist Church2 Corinthians 11 – The daily pressure of leading the churchesEphesians 4 – Gifts in the body for building up the body of Christ1 Corinthians 12 – Gifts and talents given to the churchGalatians 5:9 – Not growing weary in doing goodActs 18 – Paul’s ministry and everyday faithfulnessProverbs 1:7 – The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdomRomans 5 – Perseverance shaping characterThe Lord’s Prayer – Teaching on prayer and spiritual practiceElevate Conference – elevatechurchconference.com (September 9th at Brentwood Baptist Church, Nashville)In this episode, Aaron Bryant sits down with Jay Strother to talk candidly about staying faithful through the ups and downs of church leadership. From seminary stories to senior pastor seasons, they share what it looks like to persevere when ministry gets hard.You’ll hear practical encouragement for pastors and ministry leaders facing burnout, staff challenges, or spiritual fatigue. Learn how to build a healthy team, lean into biblical community, and trust God’s unseen work—one faithful step at a time.Whether you're in a tough season or leading someone who is, this conversation will remind you: you're not alone, and God is still at work.Episode Guests:Timestamps:00:00 Elevate Podcast Introduction03:30 Persevering Through Ministry Challenges07:13 "Building a Church from Scratch"11:59 "Building Ministry Teams Together"12:59 Building a Ministry Through Discipleship18:47 "Engage Faithful Community Members"22:10 Faithful Leadership in God's Kingdom23:16 "Ministry: Pouring from Overflow"26:54 Faithful Perseverance and Community EncouragementResources Mentioned:

Do you want more volunteers—or better ones?   Stephanie Prince: Connection Minister, The Church at Station HillTodd Bishop: Executive Pastor, North Region, Brentwood BaptistAdam Dye: Production Director, Brentwood BaptistEphesians 4:11–13 – Equipping the saints for the work of ministry1 Peter 4:10–11 – Using our gifts to serve one another  In this episode, Stephanie Prince is joined by Todd Bishop and Adam Dye to explore what it takes to build, equip, and care for a healthy volunteer team. They dive into the practical side of recruiting, training, and sustaining volunteers across different ministries—from tech to guest services to parking—and what it really looks like to foster a culture of ownership and growth.You’ll learn how to spot the right people, develop a flexible onboarding process, and create moments for care and discipleship in the middle of a fast-paced ministry calendar.Whether you’re leading in a small church or a multi-campus context, this episode will help you shift from filling roles to forming leaders.Episode Guests:Timestamps: 00:00 – Why volunteers matter in every ministry02:30 – What to look for in a great volunteer06:00 – How to spot leaders through the membership process08:30 – Why you should always be recruiting10:00 – The problem with high skill, low character11:30 – Onboarding tips that actually work14:00 – Training volunteers through shadowing17:00 – Giving volunteers ownership and feedback20:00 – Learning to delegate and let go22:00 – Equipping the saints vs. doing it all yourself23:30 – Helping volunteers grow spiritually26:00 – How to care for your team32:00 – Final thoughts: Presence over performanceResources Mentioned:Elevate Church ConferenceJoin us at Brentwood Baptist in Nashville, TN for a one-day event designed to equip your entire ministry team. You’ll hear from seasoned leaders, attend practical workshops, and leave with real tools for your church’s next season.👉 Register now at elevatechurchconference.com

Do you know how to spot the next generation of leaders in your church—and equip them to step up?    Hunter Melton: Campus & Teaching Pastor, The Church at WoodbineRoger Severino: Minister of Leadership Development, Brentwood BaptistMatt Purdom: Executive Pastor, South Region, Brentwood Baptist The Multiplication Effect by Mac LakeThe Ideal Team Player by Patrick LencioniMinistry Residency Program (Brentwood Baptist)Middle Tennessee Leadership Institute (MTLI) – brentwoodbaptist.com/mtli2 Timothy 2:2Ephesians 4:11–13Mark 3:13–15 In this episode, Hunter Melton sits down with Roger Severino and Matt Purdom to explore what it looks like to raise up lay leaders with intentionality, clarity, and care. They unpack how to define calling, identify emerging leaders, and create a culture that equips the whole church to serve.You’ll hear real stories of leadership development across Brentwood Baptist’s campuses, learn practical tools for building a leadership pipeline, and discover why developing people is discipleship at its core.Whether you’re building a team, discipling a future pastor, or wondering how to take the next step in your own leadership journey, this episode is for you.Episode Guests:Timestamps:00:00 – Why equipping leaders is everyone’s job03:30 – What does it mean to be called?07:00 – What to look for in a potential lay leader10:30 – The importance of modeling, clarity, and feedback15:00 – Building sustainable, ongoing leadership development18:00 – Why programs exist to develop people, not the other way around20:00 – How Brentwood Baptist develops leaders: Residency, seminary, and more24:00 – Lessons from mentoring the next generation of leaders27:00 – Practical advice for leaders exploring a call to ministry30:00 – Encouragement for anyone ready to take the next stepResources Mentioned:Elevate Church Conference | September 9, 2025Join us for the Elevate Church Conference at Brentwood Baptist in Nashville, TN. Learn from seasoned church leaders, grow your ministry team, and 

Is your team burned out by doing ministry for people instead of with people?    Hunter Melton: Campus & Teaching Pastor, The Church at WoodbineJohn Joseph: Campus & Teaching Pastor, The Church at Station HillGarrett Gregory: Care & Campus Pastor, Brentwood Baptist  Valley of Vision (Puritan Prayers)The Bruised Reed by Richard SibbesThe Trellis and the Vine by Colin Marshall & Tony PayneCareLife (Brentwood Baptist’s care case system)Deuteronomy 29:291 Peter 5Psalm 23Mark 1: Jesus’ rhythm of abiding and ministry In this episode, Hunter Melton sits down with pastors John Joseph and Garrett Gregory to talk about one of the most sacred, often unseen parts of ministry—shepherding. They unpack what it really means to care for souls, build sustainable systems of care, and walk with people through grief and growth.From navigating hospital visits to avoiding ministry burnout, this episode offers honest stories, biblical grounding, and practical rhythms that help pastors stay rooted in Christ while leading others.If you're a ministry leader who’s tired, stretched, or asking how to care for your people without losing yourself, this conversation is for you.Episode Guests:Timestamps:00:00 – Why shepherding matters more than ever03:30 – What God is doing at each campus09:00 – What does it really mean to shepherd people?15:00 – Systems vs. single-mindedness in pastoral care21:30 – Building teams that multiply care27:00 – When to delegate and when to step in35:00 – How to walk with people through suffering45:00 – What not to say in a crisis50:00 – Helping your staff avoid burnout56:00 – Why pastors need small groups too1:02:00 – Anchoring your soul in Christ while leading others1:08:00 – Final encouragements for weary leadersResources Mentioned:Elevate Church Conference | September 9, 2025Join us for the Elevate Church Conference at Brentwood Baptist in Nashville, TN. Learn from seasoned church leaders, grow your ministry team, and gain practical tools for your church’s next chapter. Register now at elevatechurchconference.com

Is your church healthy—or just busy?What if Sunday attendance wasn’t the only way to measure church health? In this episode, Elevate host Aaron Bryant sits down with Fady Al-Hagal to unpack how healthy churches multiply disciples, not just programs. Drawing from years of ministry and regional church partnerships, they offer a fresh framework for evaluating success, leading with the Spirit, and building a church culture that actually sends people out.  Aaron Bryant: Campus & Teaching Pastor, The Church at Avenue SouthFady Al-Hagal: Multiplication Minister, Brentwood Baptist Church Brentwood Baptist's Five Gs: Gather, Group, Give, Go, Gospel ConversationsActs 1:8 mission strategyElevate Church Conference | elevatechurchconference.com You’ll learn the five Gs of healthy disciple-making, discover how to shepherd staff toward spiritual vitality, and gain simple questions to reorient your team around a movement—not just a meeting.Episode Guests:Timestamps:00:00 – Why churches need new ways to measure health03:00 – Movement vs. activity: What really grows disciples08:00 – How the Holy Spirit leads ministry strategy11:00 – Three steps to build a disciple-making culture17:00 – Restoring spiritual health after ministry burnout20:00 – Finding partners and learning from others25:00 – Marks of a biblically healthy church28:00 – How the Five Gs help measure spiritual growth32:00 – Mobilizing your church beyond Sunday35:00 – Questions to help your staff multiply disciplesResources Mentioned:Elevate Church Conference | September 9, 2025Join us for the Elevate Church Conference at Brentwood Baptist in Nashville, TN. Learn from seasoned church leaders, grow your ministry team, and gain practical tools for your church’s next chapter. Register now at elevatechurchconference.com

Can a sermon be both theologically rich and crystal clear?    Brandon Abbott: Host, Groups Minister at Brentwood BaptistJay Strother: Senior Pastor, Brentwood Baptist ChurchBrandon Hayes: Campus Pastor, Harpeth Heights 00:00 – Why this conversation matters03:00 – Learning your people and their needs06:45 – “Exegete the text—and the congregation”10:00 – Gospel clarity in every sermon16:30 – Tips for sermon prep that starts with Scripture23:00 – The power of personal connection in preaching28:45 – When you go too deep (or too light)34:30 – Finding the right balance of illustration and depth40:15 – Advice for newer preachers and young pastors47:00 – Preaching to a diverse congregation53:30 – The bell curve of biblical literacy59:00 – Preaching that creates hunger—not just heat   In this episode, Elevate host Brandon Abbott sits down with Senior Pastor Jay Strother and Harpeth Heights Campus Pastor Brandon Hayes to explore one of the most common tensions in preaching: depth vs. accessibility.Whether you're teaching brand-new believers, seasoned saints, or everyone in between, this episode is packed with real stories, practical tools, and a reminder of why we preach in the first place—to engage the whole person with the whole gospel of Jesus Christ, anywhere, anytime, with anybody.From sermon prep tips to common mistakes young pastors make, you’ll walk away with new clarity and encouragement for crafting messages that actually land—and lead to life change.Episode Guests:Timestamps:Elevate Conference | September 9, 2025Looking to sharpen your preaching or grow as a church leader? Join us for the Elevate Conference on September 9, 2025,at Brentwood Baptist Church in Nashville, TN.This one-day event is designed for your whole church staff and includes dynamic keynotes, role-specific breakouts, and the chance to connect with ministry leaders from across the region.Register today at elevatechurchconference.com

Is your student ministry just taking trips—or forming missionaries?   Evan Kunz: Brentwood Baptist Student MinisterAmy-Jo Girardier: Brentwood Baptist Women's Minister, former Girls & Student Mission Mobilizer at Brentwood BaptistMac Johnson: Global Worker/Pastor at The Point Church, former Student Minister at Brentwood Baptist  Acts 18 and the “Here, There, Everywhere” strategyThe Point Church, Vancouver, BCReborn Community Church, Chicago, ILMission 615 In this episode, Elevate host Evan Kunz sits down with Amy-Jo Girardier and Mac Johnson to explore how student mission journeys can do far more than fill a summer calendar. You’ll hear stories from over two decades of ministry, get practical frameworks for building mission partnerships, and discover how short-term trips can spark long-term calling.Whether you're shaping your first student mission trip or deepening your church's sending culture, this episode will help you equip the next generation for a life on mission.Episode Guests: Timestamps:00:00 – Why student missions matter03:00 – How the student missions strategy began08:00 – From student minister to global worker13:00 – Shifting from trips to discipleship20:00 – The “Here, There, Everywhere” model27:00 – Teaching mission theology to students33:00 – The power of long-term partnerships42:00 – What makes a mission trip stick48:00 – Helping students pray, give, and go53:00 – Training students to share their faith59:00 – How short trips spark lifelong calling1:08:00 – Preparing students—and their parents—for life after the trip1:14:00 – Creating co-pilot moments for the next generationResources Mentioned:Elevate Church Conference | September 9, 2025Join us for the Elevate Church Conference at Brentwood Baptist in Nashville, TN. Learn from seasoned church leaders, grow your ministry team, and gain practical tools for your church’s next chapter. Register now at elevatechurchconference.com

Is your church ready to talk about leadership succession?     Preaching in a Post-Truth World by Dr. Mike GlennEngage Church NetworkBrentwood Baptist Church In this episode, Elevate host Darrel Girardier sits down with Dr. Mike Glenn (Executive Director, Engaged Church Network and former Senior Pastor of Brentwood Baptist church) and Dr. Jay Strother (Senior Pastor, Brentwood Baptist) to share how their team approached one of the most delicate leadership changes in a church's life: the passing of the pastoral baton.They walk through what worked, what they’d do differently, and how to build a culture—and a process—that sets your church up for future faithfulness. Whether you're the outgoing pastor, the incoming leader, or someone supporting the transition, this honest conversation offers practical wisdom and encouragement.👉 Learn more & register for Elevate Church Conference at elevatechurchconference.comTimestamps:00:00 – Welcome and Brentwood’s unique multi-campus model03:35 – When Mike sensed it was time to transition10:24 – Jay’s journey from student ministry to senior pastor20:40 – Why healthy transitions start years in advance26:45 – How to identify and encourage future leaders34:22 – Building congregational trust with clear visuals41:10 – Behind the scenes of Brentwood’s transition process50:07 – Where to start if your church has no process58:30 – Why pastors need something to “go to” not just “leave”1:06:12 – Matching the new leader to the church’s DNA1:12:55 – Helping staff adjust to a new leadership cadence1:21:09 – What they’d both do differentlyResources Mentioned:Elevate Church Conference | September 9, 2025Join us for the Elevate Church Conference at Brentwood Baptist in Nashville, TN. Learn from seasoned church leaders, grow your ministry team, and gain practical tools for your church’s next chapter. Register now at elevatechurchconference.com

In this episode, Elevate host Ellie Axford (Special Needs Ministry Director) sits down with Carley Ellis (Special Needs Programming Director) to share how Embrace Special Needs Ministry began, what it looks like today, and why inclusion isn't just for a few—it's essential for the whole church.They share practical steps for churches of any size, advice for new volunteers, and honest stories of serving kids, teens, and adults with disabilities—and the families who love them. Whether you're starting from scratch or growing an existing ministry, this conversation will open your eyes to what’s possible when the body of Christ makes space for every part.👉 Learn more & register for Elevate Church Conference at elevatechurchconference.comTimestamps00:00 – How Brentwood Started the Special Needs Ministry06:00 – What Special Needs Ministry Looks Like14:00 – More Than a Ministry—A Churchwide Culture20:00 – Day Programs, Respite, and Support33:00 – Getting Started and Gaining Support44:00 – Partnering Beyond the ChurchResources MentionedHow to Get Church Leadership Involved in Disability Ministry – Joni & Friends5 Steps to Starting a Special Needs Ministry – Joni & FriendsBrentwood Baptist Embrace Special Needs MinistryBrentwood Baptist Embrace Day Program 

What if leading a team wasn’t a tension to manage—but a calling to steward?   In this episode, Elevate host Bill Ferrell (Executive Pastor of Central Support) sits down with Brian Coates (Executive Pastor of Brentwood Baptist Church) to talk about one of the biggest challenges in church leadership: learning to lead both as a shepherd and a supervisor. From managing team chemistry to navigating difficult conversations, they share wisdom for pastors who want to care for people and call them to more.Whether you’re stepping into leadership for the first time or trying to balance your gifts with your growing responsibilities, this episode offers practical tools—and biblical perspective—for leading like Jesus.👉 Learn more & register for Elevate Church Conference at elevatechurchconference.comTimestamps00:00 – Shepherd vs. Supervisor: What’s the Difference? Why pastors struggle with the tension—and why both roles matter.03:00 – The Push and Pull of Leadership. How early mistakes in ministry can shape how we lead today.06:45 – Listening First, Leading Second. Why the first year in leadership should be focused on relationships.08:00 – Praying With Your Team. A simple habit that builds trust and earns the right to be heard.10:30 – Hiring for Chemistry. Why fit matters more than you think—and how to build a team that thrives.13:00 – Structure That Supports Ministry. How clear systems and accountability help keep your staff healthy.16:30 – Setting SMART Goals. How well-defined goals actually shepherd your team, not just manage them.18:00 – Tools to Develop Leaders. From scenarios to book studies, how to disciple your team into better leadership.23:00 – Mentorship Matters. Why learning from others outside your organization is key to long-term growth.26:00 – Giving Feedback with Clarity and Compassion. Mistakes pastors make in conflict—and how to speak the truth in love.29:00 – Weekly 1:1s. The underrated discipline that builds trust, accountability, and alignment.31:00 – Equipping Church Leaders of Every Size. Ideas for staff development, no matter your church's budget or context.35:00 – Play the Long Game. The power of patience, perspective, and pastoring for the next five years—not just the next five weeks.Resources MentionedThe E-Myth Revisited by Michael E. Gerber – A must-read on why good leaders can’t do it all themselves.Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni – Insights on building trust, managing conflict, and creating team cohesion.The Emotionally Healthy Leader by Pete Scazzero – How personal health fuels healthy leadership.Myers-Briggs, DISC, Enneagram – Personality assessments to help you understand your team dynamics.Five Love Languages (Gary Chapman) – Surprisingly useful for building relational equity with your staff.Leadership Development Pipeline at Brentwood Baptist – Structured training to grow ministry leaders (available internally).

What if your church’s membership process wasn’t just paperwork and classes—but the start of real discipleship?In this episode, Elevate host and Connections Minister Michele Dyer (Connection Minister at Brentwood Baptist) sits down with Hadden Finch (Membership Minister, Brentwood Baptist) and Stephanie Prince (Connection Minister, Station Hill) to talk about building healthy connection ministries. From coaching new members to identifying spiritual gifts, they share how churches can create intentional pathways that move people from attendance to ownership—without anyone falling through the cracks.Whether you’re launching a new process or refining what you have, this episode offers practical tips for building a culture where everyone belongs and everyone serves.👉 Learn more & register for Elevate Church Conference at elevatechurchconference.comTimestamps00:00 – Why Connection Ministry Matters. The purpose of helping people move from guest to engaged member—and why it’s core to discipleship.04:30 – Brentwood’s Membership Process. An overview of Discover Us, Discover You, and the role of coaching in helping people take next steps.10:00 – Coaching as Discipleship. How trained lay leaders guide new members, hear their stories, and help them find where they fit.14:30 – Tools That Help People Understand Their Gifts. Using assessments like DISC, Spiritual Gifts, and Passion Index to identify how people are wired for ministry.18:00 – Why High Expectations Help, Not Hurt. How the intentional process deepens engagement and creates long-term ministry health.21:00 – Moving from Volunteer Roles to Calling. The difference between filling a spot and helping people serve in their sweet spot—and how that creates ownership.24:30 – How Connection Benefits the Whole Church. Membership done well supports pastors, ministry leaders, and the communications team by identifying engaged disciples.27:00 – Easy First Steps for Getting People Connected. Shadowing, VBS, and simple pathways that help people step into ministry without fear.30:00 – Final Encouragement for Leaders and Attenders. What anyone—minister or member—can do to take a next step toward connection and community. Resources Mentioned:Center for Christian Coaching – Equip leaders and members through gospel-centered coaching: ⁠brentwoodbaptist.com/mtli/center-for-christian-coaching⁠PLACE Ministries – Discover your personality, spiritual gifts, and passion: ⁠placeministries.org⁠Bigger Than Me – Tools and assessments for calling and purpose: ⁠bigger-than-me.com⁠

Register Now for the Elevate Conference on September 9, 2025 Join us in Nashville, TN, for a one-day event designed to equip church leaders with practical strategies for sustainable ministry. Learn more at elevatechurchconference.com.On this episode of the Elevate Podcast, host Nic Gonzales (Worship Minister at The Church at Avenue South) is joined by Travis Cottrell (Worship Minister at Brentwood Baptist) and Luke Roman (Worship Minister at The Church at Station Hill) for a rich conversation on the theology of worship music and how song selection shapes the spiritual formation of a congregation. From building a healthy “song diet” to evaluating song rotation, introducing new songs, and retiring old ones, they discuss how worship leaders can shepherd their church through intentional and theological song choices.Meet the Speakers:Nic Gonzales – Worship Minister at The Church at Avenue South, passionate about encouraging authenticity in worship through music and relationships.Travis Cottrell – Worship Minister at Brentwood Baptist, seasoned leader, songwriter, and mentor shaping multi-generational worship in Middle Tennessee.Luke Roman – Worship Minister at The Church at Station Hill, committed to building singing congregations with a heart for spiritual depth and theological clarity.Topics Discussed in This Episode:2:00 – What is a healthy “song diet” and why it matters6:00 – How singing shapes theology and discipleship10:07 – Balancing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs13:00 – How worship engages mind, heart, and body15:18 – Evaluating your current rotation with a quarterly review20:15 – The role of theology in new song selection23:00 – Practical approaches to introducing new songs26:00 – How to connect new songs with spiritual moments31:00 – How often should you repeat songs to build familiarity?35:00 – When and how to “retire” a song with wisdom38:20 – Preparing your church for Easter songs47:00 – Encouragement for worship leaders in small or isolated churchesResources Mentioned:Grace Upon Grace – Michael BoggsBless God – Brooke LigertwoodHe Will Hold Me Fast – Keith & Kristyn GettySong Diet Exercise – Brentwood Worship team practice (inquire at Elevate Conference breakout sessions)Elevate Conference | September 9, 2025 | https://elevatechurchconference.com/ Elevate ConferenceLooking to grow as a worship leader or lead your team with greater clarity? Join us for the Elevate Conference on September 9, 2025, at Brentwood Baptist Church in Nashville, TN. This one-day event is packed with practical tools and fresh vision for every area of church leadership. Register now at https://elevatechurchconference.com/.

↗️ Register Now for the Elevate Conference on September 9, 2025Join us in Nashville, TN, for a one-day event designed to equip church leaders with practical strategies for sustainable ministry. Learn more at https://elevatechurchconference.com/. On this episode of the Elevate Podcast, Amy-Jo Girardier sits down with Oksana Field to discuss how to build women’s ministries rooted in discipleship rather than events. From sharing early conversations in Disney roller coaster lines to launching mentoring programs and gathering women across campuses, Amy-Jo and Oksana unpack the principles that have helped cultivate authentic community, spiritual depth, and leadership development in their ministries.Meet the Speakers:Amy-Jo Girardier: Women’s Minister at Brentwood Baptist, leading initiatives that equip women for discipleship, mentoring, and leadership development.Oksana Field: Worship and Women’s Minister at The Church at Harpeth Heights, passionate about fostering authentic, Bible-centered community for women of all generations.Topics Discussed in This Episode:0:00 — How a Disney trip launched a shared vision for women’s ministry2:00 — Why moving from event-based to discipleship-driven ministry matters6:24 — Building collaborative ministry across multiple campuses8:10 — The biblical foundation and personal impact of mentoring13:00 — How prayer prepared the way for flourishing mentoring programs24:00 — Developing Gather in Homes: equipping women to lead and connect29:50 — How small, everyday steps lead to empowered leadership34:45 — Shifts from consumerism to discipleship in women’s ministry42:00 — Future dreams: theological training and micro-mission journeys46:00 — Encouragement for women hesitant to take their next leadership stepResources Mentioned:⁠Flourish Mentoring Program – Passion City Church⁠⁠Lifeway Academy⁠ (for future Trellis leadership development)⁠Elevate Conference | September 9, 2025⁠

On this episode of the Elevate Podcast, Renee Blain hosts a conversation with Todd Villemont and Amy Keys about ministry to preschoolers and their families. The early years of parenting represent both a critical spiritual formation window and a time when many adults are most open to faith conversations. These ministry leaders explore how churches can seize this pivotal moment—when families are establishing patterns and parents are actively seeking guidance—to build relationships that will impact both child and parent discipleship for years to come.This discussion goes beyond classroom management to explore the critical partnership between church and home during the formative preschool years. From identifying expectant parents to facilitating parent-child dedication ceremonies, from creating spaces for authentic parent community to empowering families for mission, our guests share practical strategies that have strengthened families and pointed children toward Jesus.Meet the Speakers:Renee Blain: Associate Preschool Minister at Brentwood Baptist with 30 years of experience in preschool ministry and mother of two adult daughters.Todd Villemont: Preschool Minister at Brentwood Baptist with 13 years in children's ministry, father of two children ages 8 and 12.Amy Keys: Preschool Minister at the Church at Station Hill for 7 years, mother of three grown children ages 19-22.Topics Discussed in This Episode:1:31 - Introduction to our panel of preschool ministry experts3:14 - Identifying and reaching out to new and expectant parents6:02 - Introducing the New & Expectant Parents Class structure and content10:47 - What parent-child dedication looks like and why it matters13:53 - Common parenting questions and how to provide support16:48 - Creating spaces for parents to build community and find support21:20 - Gospel conversations with preschoolers: why and how24:19 - Equipping parents to lead Bible reading at home26:18 - Family service opportunities and mission experiences for preschoolersResources Mentioned:• The "Five Gs" framework for discipleship (Gospel Conversations, Groups, Gather, Give, Go)• Parenting: 14 Gospel Principles That Can Radically Change Your Family (with Study Questions) by Paul David TrippElevate Conference | September 9, 2025Join us for the Elevate Conference on September 9 at Brentwood Baptist Church in Nashville, TN. This one-day event equips church leaders with actionable strategies for discipleship, growth, and navigating ministry challenges. Register today at https://elevatechurchconference.com/.