The Grace Place Podcast

How does God prepare a person for a lifetime of ministry?  In this episode of the Grace Place Wellness Podcast, hosts Rev. Tom Eggebrecht and Rev. Dr. Greg Walton sit down with Rev. Dr. James Baneck, Executive Director of LCMS Pastoral Education. Dr. Baneck shares his journey from a music major in Green Bay to leading synod-wide initiatives for pastoral formation. We dive deep into the "Set Apart to Serve" campaign, discussing how the LCMS is aggressively tackling church work enrollment and breaking down barriers to recruitment. From the importance of emotional intelligence in the pre-seminary years to the vital role of "PALS" (Post-Seminary Applied Learning and Support), this episode explores how intentional wellness and congregational care are the keys to sustaining the next generation of church workers.  

Longtime director of Christian education, consultant and Dale E. Griffin Statesman Award honoree Kurt Bickel joins the podcast to talk about wellness that lasts in real-life ministry. Join cohosts Rev. Tom Eggebrecht and Rev. Dr. Greg Walton as Kurt shares how God led him into DCE ministry, the story behind his work with the LCMS Youth Gathering and what he learned about leadership, mission and conflict along the way. He unpacks why “listening is the language of love,” how emergent leader training helped church workers and laity unlearn unhelpful patterns and why a clear mission can defuse conflict on a team.  

Rev. Dr. Bruce Hartung, a longtime LCMS pastor, counselor, seminary professor and author of “Holding Up the Prophet’s Hand” and “Building Up the Body of Christ,” joins the podcast for a rich conversation on church worker wellness. Drawing on decades of ministry, Dr. Hartung reflects on the Spirit’s leading through unexpected calls, the power of retrospection and why learning from the people we serve is central to lifelong formation. Join co-hosts Rev. Tom Eggebrecht and Rev. Dr. Greg Walton as Rev. Dr. Hartung addresses spiritual warfare in the seminary, the dangers of a purely “remedial” approach to health and the growing pressures church workers face in an increasingly polarized culture. Listen for practical ideas for shifting congregations toward preventive wellness, nurturing spiritual life in community and creating a genuine culture of appreciation that supports joyful ministers and joyful ministry. Whether you’re a pastor, church worker or lay leader, this episode will encourage you to be well and stay well in the grace, love, peace, mercy and forgiveness of Jesus.

Dr. Kurt Senske, founder of CEO Board Services, joins the podcast to talk about leadership wellness and mission clarity in the church.Dr. Senske is a consultant, author and longtime Lutheran leader. Drawing from decades of experience leading mission-driven organizations, including serving as CEO of Upbring (formerly Lutheran Social Services of the South) and currently as the Board Chair of Lutheran Hour Ministries, Dr. Senske explores how the challenges of ministry—complex operations, leadership burnout and shifting governance models—require renewed focus on pastoral care and organizational clarity.  Join podcast hosts Rev. Tom Eggebrecht and Rev. Dr. Greg Walton as Dr. Senske shares practical ways congregations can support their pastors, strengthen ministry boards and prevent burnout through sabbaticals, coaching and spiritual grounding. 

Rev. Dr. Bill Harmon, president of the Southeastern District, shares his personal journey into ministry, the district’s innovative approach to worker wellness and the importance of balancing care for church workers and their families in Episode 30. Join co-hosts Rev. Tom Eggebrecht and Rev. Dr. Greg Walton to learn how the Southeastern District is equipping congregations with practical tools, building a culture of care and reigniting hope—even amid challenges like worker shortages and burnout.

Rev. Jeff Dorth, lead pastor of Island Lutheran Church in Hilton Head, South Carolina, joins the Grace Place Podcast to share the inspiring story behind Island Oasis, a ministry dedicated to providing rest and renewal for church workers. Join co-hosts Rev. Tom Eggebrecht and Rev. Dr. Greg Walton to learn how this unique respite ministry came to life, the importance of rest for church workers and how Island Oasis is making a difference for pastors, teachers and their families. Pastor Dorth also reflects on his own ministry journey, the challenges facing church workers today and practical tips for wellness. Learn more about Island Oasis: https://www.islandlutheran.org/islandoasis/ 

Hear from Linda and Jeff Mueller, founders of Eden Above the Sea, in Episode 27 of the Grace Place Podcast.Eden Above the Sea is a ministry offering free, restorative weeks in Hawaii for LCMS church worker couples. The Muellers share their inspiring journey of creating this sanctuary, the importance of sabbaticals and how intentional care can rejuvenate ministry marriages. Learn how Eden Above the Sea provides a no-cost, grace-filled experience designed to renew body, mind, and spirit. From romantic dinners to daily surprises, the Mueller’s passion for serving the Lord’s servants shines through.Learn more about Eden Above the Sea at edenabovethesea.org 

In this special episode of the Grace Place Wellness Podcast, we’re talking about the importance of rest for church workers. Stephanie Genske, an LCEF Grace Place Sabbatical Scholarship recipient in 2024, shares her story of stepping away from her busy ministry life to recharge and reconnect. From visiting other churches to spending time with her family, Stephanie’s eight-week sabbatical gave her the space to breathe and come back ready to serve. If you’ve ever wondered what a sabbatical could look like or why it’s so important, this episode is for you. Tune in to hear Stephanie’s honest and heartfelt experience and learn how Grace Place Sabbatical Scholarships can make this possible for others.

In Episode 26, Rev. Marty Hasz, Director of Church Worker Support for the Missouri District of the LCMS, joins the podcast to discuss supporting church workers through emotional stewardship, ongoing education and care rooted in the Gospel. He shares practical strategies for building resilience, including intentional training and lay support, while highlighting how joy found in Christ is key to long-term wellness in ministry.

In Episode 25 of the Grace Place Wellness Podcast, Pastor Tom Eggebrecht and Rev. Dr. Greg Walton welcome Rev. Kirk Triplet—pastor, author, and advocate for church worker wellness. Kirk shares his journey through the highs and lows of ministry, insights from his book Affirmed: Building the Positive Mental Health of Your Pastor and practical ways church members and leaders can care for their pastors. Explore how healthy expectations, collaboration and genuine relationships can strengthen your congregation’s cultureand help church workers thrive. 

Rev. Jonathan Manor, Director of the LCMS PALS program, joins hosts Rev. Tom Eggebrecht and Rev. Dr. Greg Walton to discuss how new pastors can thrive as they transition from seminary to parish life. Learn how the PALS program supports church workers and their families, why continuing education matters and how congregations can play a vital role in long-term wellness. 

In this special episode of The Grace Place Wellness Podcast, hosts Tom and Greg welcome Rev. Bart Day, President and CEO of Lutheran Church Extension Fund (LCEF). With a rich background of LCMS leadership experience, Bart brings a wealth of insight and heart to the conversation. Together, they explore the intersection of faith, leadership, wellness and how Bart’s journey has informed his current role at the helm of the church’s financial institution. Whether you’re a church worker, a supporter of ministry or someone passionate about holistic wellness, this discussion offers inspiration and practical wisdom.

What does it take to care well for church workers and ourselves? In this episode, Rev. Dr. Mark Hannemann, Executive Director of Good Friend Ministries and Director of Advancement for GracePoint Institute for Relational Health, joins Tom and Greg to share the path that led him from parish ministry into pastoral care, explain the heart behind a retreat ministry for pastors and their spouses and reflect on how congregations can better care for those who serve. From sabbatical wisdom to wellness rhythms, this conversation is full of insight and encouragement.  

Chaplain Craig Muehler and Chaplain Steve Hokana, both of whom serve the LCMS Ministry to the Armed Forces, share their journeys into military chaplaincy, the unique challenges chaplains face and how they provide spiritual care for service members in high-stress environments. From PTSD awareness to the power of spiritual resilience, this episode highlights the critical role of chaplains in both times of war and peace. Whether you’re a church worker, military family or simply curious about the intersection of faith and service, this conversation is full of insights and encouragement. 

Leadership in ministry comes with great responsibility—but also great challenges. How do church workers navigate the demands of their calling without sacrificing their own well-being? In Episode 20 of the Grace Place Podcast, Rev. Dr. Ben Haupt, Global Executive Director of Pastoral Leadership Institute, shares how his own leadership journey shaped his understanding of wellness in ministry.

How can church workers find balance during ministry challenges?In this episode, Rev. Dr. Brian Friedrich, President of Concordia University, St. Paul, joins co-hosts Rev. Tom Eggebrecht and Rev. Dr. Greg Walton to discuss practical ways to sustain wellness, embrace joy and foster strong connections. From the impact of Lutheran higher education to the challenges of social media, this conversation is filled with wisdom for church workers at every stage of ministry.

Co-hosts Rev. Tom Eggebrecht and Rev. Dr. Greg Walton sit down with Rev. Dr. Jeff Schrank, the dynamic leader behind the Best Practices Ministry Conference, to discuss church worker wellness and the power of encouragement. They explore how the conference supports church workers through connection, hospitality and meaningful ministry insights. Learn how teamwork, creativity and spiritual care create an environment where workers feel valued and reminded they are never alone.

As the Advent season unfolds and the rush toward Christmas begins,the demands on church workers can feel overwhelming. In Episode 17 of the Grace Place Podcast, Rev. Tom Eggebrecht and Rev. Dr. Greg Walton share essential strategies for maintaining physical, emotional and spiritual wellness during this busy yet joyful season. Start this holiday season with wellness and grace at the forefront.

Father-daughter duo Rev. Dr. Rick Armstrong and Megan Miessler, Executive Director of Lutheran Counseling Services, join the podcast for episode 16. They share their experiences in providing mental health support to church workers and their families and addressing challenges like burnout, identity struggles and the importance of mental health in ministry. Listen in as they join hosts Rev. Tom Eggebrecht and Rev. Dr. Greg Walton to discuss the power of embracing transitions, the unique stressors church workers face and the vital role of self-care in staying healthy in ministry.

Voice in the Vineyard is a nonprofit that provides church workers a peaceful retreat in the vineyard, combining spiritual growth, rest and encouragement. Join hosts Rev. Tom Eggebrecht and Rev. Dr. Greg Walton for Episode 15 as they welcome Cindy Steinbeck, owner of Steinbeck Vineyards, and Steve Schedler, a retired Director of Christian Education, to discuss their new ministry, Voice in the Vineyard. Tune in for insights on the connections between faith and the vineyard, soul care and practical wellness tips for church workers.

Deaconess Dr. Tiffany Manor shares her journey in ministry, highlighting the essential work of supporting church workers and their families in Episode 14 of the Grace Place Podcast. The Managing Director of Human Care and Ministerial Support for the LCMS, Manor joins co-hosts Rev. Tom Eggebrecht and Rev. Dr. Greg Walton to discuss the challenges facing church workers today, the importance of relational support and practical steps for improving wellness in ministry.  

In this bonus episode of the Grace Place Podcast, hosts Rev. Tom Eggebrecht and Rev. Dr. Greg Walton sit down with Rev. Tim Fangmeier to discuss sabbaticals. Tim has a rich history in ministry, serving congregations in Florida and North Carolina. He has extensive experience as a mission and ministry facilitator, conflict consultant and sabbatical coach. Tim shares his journey into ministry, the importance of sabbaticals and offers practical advice for church workers. Whether you’re considering a sabbatical or looking to enhance your wellness journey, this episode offers valuable insights and encouragement. 

Steve Gruenwald, Director of Worker Wellness for Concordia Plans, is an experienced advocate for church worker wellness. In Episode 13 of the Grace Place Podcast, he shares his journey from a Lutheran high school teacher to his current role. Join hosts Rev. Tom Eggebrecht and Rev. Dr. Greg Walton as Gruenwald discusses the importance of physical, emotional and financial health, and offers practical insights and encouragement for church workers to care for themselves.  

Dr. Beverly Yahnke, a clinical psychologist and Executive Director of Christian Counsel for Doxology, shares her journey in church work in Episode 12 of the Grace Place Podcast. Join podcast hosts Rev. Tom Eggebrecht and Rev. Dr. Greg Walton as Dr. Yahnke provides invaluable insights on the challenges and cultural changes affecting church workers today. Discover the importance of self-care, the impact of cultural shifts on ministry and the crucial role of maintaining spiritual and emotional wellness. Tune in for practical advice and encouragement for church workers navigating today's complex landscape. 

Episode 11 of the Grace Place Podcast features Jim Sanft, President and CEO of Concordia Plans. Join hosts Rev. Tom Eggebrecht and Rev. Dr. Greg Walton as Jim shares his journey from a mathematics and statistics graduate to leading Concordia Plans, highlighting his commitment to church worker wellness. They speak about the importance of preventative and restorative wellness, the numerous health and financial programs offered by Concordia Plans and the critical role of intentional self-care for church workers. Jim also discusses his upcoming book, "Leading by Faith: Practical Insights for Christian Leaders," and emphasizes the need for creating a culture of wellness within church communities.

Meet Rev. Dr. Darrell Zimmerman, a long-time pastor and former Executive Director of Grace Place Wellness, in episode 10 of the Grace Place Podcast. Join Rev. Tom Eggebrecht and Rev. Dr. Greg Walton as they interview Zimmerman, who shares insights from his extensive experience in church ministry and intentional interim work. He emphasizes the importance of self-care and mutual support among church workers, highlighting the need for healthy clergy relationships and addressing cultural divides within congregations.

 In Episode 9 of the Grace Place Podcast, learn more about co-host Rev. Dr. Greg Walton’s personal wellness journey. Greg shares insights from his ministry career, including his unexpected path to becoming a pastor, the challenges he faced along the way and the pivotal moments that shaped his understanding of wellness in ministry. Through anecdotes and reflections, Greg and Rev. Tom Eggebrecht emphasize the importance of balance, relational wellness and the need for intentional care for church workers.  

Gain valuable insights into financial wellness for church workers in Episode 8 of the Grace Place Podcast, as Rev. Tom Eggebrecht and Rev. Dr. Greg Walton explore the significance of sound financial planning, budgeting, and retirement within ministry. The episode delves into the emotional aspects of finances, common pitfalls, and challenges, offering practical tips and resources for navigating financial stress and finding hope in God's provision. ⁠Grace Place Wellness⁠ ⁠Lutheran Church Extension Fund

We all know the importance of physical activity for our health, but have you ever thought about caring for your physical body as a temple of the Holy Spirit? In this episode of the Grace Place Podcast, hosts Rev. Tom Eggebrecht and Rev. Dr. Greg Walton dive into the significance of this concept and provide valuable insights into maintaining physical wellness as church workers and individuals committed to God's service.  In this episode, you will:  Discover the theological basis for prioritizing your physical well-being and how it contributes to your spiritual journey. Explore the restorative power of taking time to recharge, including the role of sabbaticals in maintaining a healthy, long-lasting ministry. Get a clearer picture of the current state of physical wellness in the church and why it's crucial for us to address this issue. Remember, taking care of yourself is essential to better serve others. Grace Place Wellness Lutheran Church Extension Fund

Navigating the challenges of burnout and over-functioning is a shared journey among church workers. In this episode of the Grace Place Podcast, Rev. Tom Eggebrecht and Rev. Dr. Greg Walton delve into the important topic of vocational wellness.  Learn valuable insights on preventing burnout, mastering over-functioning and striking a healthy balance between ministry and personal life. This episode is a treasure trove of practical tips to elevate your well-being in the service of God.    Grace Place Wellness Lutheran Church Extension Fund

Do you know the importance of EQ (emotional intelligence)? In this episode of the Grace Place Podcast, Rev. Tom Eggebrecht and Rev. Dr. Greg Walton explore emotional wellness for church workers. Learn how to navigate conflicts, foster forgiveness and embrace emotional intelligence. Don't miss the valuable insights that can transform your ministry. Grace Place Wellness Lutheran Church Extension Fund

Fostering a healthy curiosity can enhance your life and ministry. Tune in to this episode for insightful discussions with hosts Rev. Tom Eggebrecht and Rev. Dr. Greg Walton about communication, active listening and the role of continuing education. Don't miss the wellness tip at the end!  Grace Place Wellness Lutheran Church Extension Fund

Trust is the key to building relationships that enhance and support individual and corporate ministry. In this episode of the Grace Place Podcast, hosts Rev. Tom Eggebrecht and Rev. Dr. Greg Walton discuss relational wellness. They show the importance of prioritizing healthy relationships at home, in our congregations and in the community. Grace Place Wellness Lutheran Church Extension Fund

We know the importance of baptismal and spiritual wellness – even and especially for church workers. In this episode of the Grace Place Podcast, hosts Rev. Tom Eggebrecht and Rev. Dr. Greg Walton discuss prioritizing personal devotional time in God’s Word as well as practical ways for doing so. Grace Place Wellness Lutheran Church Extension Fund

Are you an LCMS church worker? Get equipped with the tools to thrive in your ministry while finding balance and fulfillment in all aspects of life. In this episode of the Grace Place Podcast, hosts Rev. Tom Eggebrecht and Rev. Dr. Greg Walton discuss church worker wellness in general and “The Lutheran Wellness Wheel” specifically. They discuss how Grace Place Wellness helps church workers assess, evaluate and plan for opportunities to remain well so that they can carry out effective and energetic ministry. https://graceplacewellness.org/ https://lcef.org