The Shepherds Circle

Is the era of the “cool church” coming to an end?In this week’s episode of The Shepherds Circle, we dive into a thought-provoking conversation sparked by insights from Karl Vaters—exploring the rise (and possible decline) of the attractional, mega-church model.Are bigger churches really reaching the unchurched… or just reshuffling believers?Are people still drawn to hype—or are they hungry for something deeper and more authentic?From real-life pastoral stories to eye-opening stats, this episode challenges ministry leaders to rethink what healthy church actually looks like today.➡️ If you’re serving in a small or mid-sized church, this one will encourage you to stay faithful, stay grounded, and stay focused on what truly matters: discipleship, community, and Spirit-led leadership.💥 And yes… the now-legendary “sploosh” moment makes another appearance.___________🙏 This episode is sponsored by Kelley & Mullis Wealth Management Inc.An independent investment firm based in Vestavia Hills, Alabama, with over 35 years of experience helping individuals and families plan wisely for the future. Their commitment to long-term stewardship, integrity, and relationship-driven financial guidance makes them a trusted partner for ministry leaders and beyond.___________🎧 Listen now on your favorite platform (including Pandora!)📲 Like, share, and send this to a pastor or ministry leader who needs the encouragement today.

Season 3, Episode 1 — Shepherds Circle PodcastWelcome to Season 3 of The Shepherds Circle.We’re kicking things off fresh off the Shepherds Summit 2026 with a raw, honest, and deeply encouraging conversation among a room full of small church pastors and ministry leaders reflecting on what God did over the weekend—and what it means for life and ministry moving forward.Hosted by Stan Givens, Caleb Howell, and Victor Herman, this episode captures the real conversations that don’t always make it to a stage: the weight pastors carry, the tension of calling and discouragement, the ongoing challenge of discipleship, and the importance of staying faithful when ministry feels heavy.From laughter-filled moments (yes… we talk about “sploosh”) to deeply vulnerable stories about perseverance, calling, and healing, this episode reminds us that ministry was never meant to be done alone.In this conversation, we'll touch on: What God stirred in hearts at the Shepherds Summit 2026The hidden burdens pastors carry in small church ministryWhy transparency and vulnerability matter among leadersThe simplicity—and challenge—of making disciplesHow social media and modern communication is reshaping ministry outreachWhy endurance in your calling matters more than everWhether you’re a pastor, ministry leader, or someone walking closely with church leadership, this episode will encourage you, challenge you, and remind you that you are not alone in the work.🎧🐑 Pull up a chair.🪑You’re in the circle.________________🙏 This episode is sponsored by Kelley & Mullis Wealth Management Inc.A trusted, independent firm based in Vestavia Hills, Alabama, serving individuals and families with a long-term, relationship-first approach to financial stewardship. We’re grateful for their support of pastors and the local church. Learn more at kmwealthmanagement.com

In the season finale, Stan, Vic and Josh chat about next weekend's Shepherds Summit and discuss what they love about the event. 

This week in the circle, Stan and Victor sit down with 6:14 Communications Director Josh Givens to talk about a topic many pastors are beginning to wrestle with: the growing role of A.I., social media, and the church’s digital presence.Josh shares why he believes every church—especially small churches—needs to think carefully about what he calls “the digital front door.” For many people today, a church’s social media or online presence is the very first interaction they have with that ministry.The conversation explores questions many pastors are asking right now:What role should A.I. play in ministry? Why are some pastors excited about it while others are suspicious? And how can pastors who already feel stretched thin think wisely about social media without feeling overwhelmed?Along the way, the guys discuss the surprising advantages small churches actually have in the digital world, how attention works in today’s media landscape, and why thoughtful online engagement can open doors for real, in-person ministry.This episode also previews Josh’s upcoming session at The Shepherds Summit, titled “A.I., Attention & The Digital Front Door.”If you’ve ever wondered how technology, social media, and A.I. fit into faithful pastoral ministry, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.Still need to register for The Summit? Be sure to do that here: https://614ministries.org/shepherds-summit-2026

Jesus gave clear instructions to His disciples regarding who would plant the churches that Jesus would "build." The process is one-to-one and works effectively if we do not get too distracted or create too many plans around the plan Jesus gave us. In today's episode, we want to remind our pastors and lay leaders that we are called to make disciples and help our disciples make disciples. We'll talk about trusting the process and avoiding the distractions. 

This week in the circle, Stan and the guys talk false believers among the saints, what to do with them, and why a lot of people think they are saved based on cultural values rather than Scriptural truth. Church can be messy — and no, we're not talking about the nursery or the pastor's office. This episode addresses the varieties of people we minister to within our churches and how God works with them. 

This week in the circle, Stan sits down with Hurley Baptist Church Lead Pastor Lance Sudduth to discuss training up the next generation of leaders from within the walls of the local church, particularly small churches. The guys will chat about Lance's vision that is already stretching across Mississippi with over 100 men learning practical ministry skills. Stay tuned to the end of the episode for announcements about our upcoming Shepherds Summit. 

This week in the circle: Stan and the guys have some fun with a short discussion about the upcoming Shepherds Summit [March 26-28] and what topics you can expect to encounter there. Here's a little of what you have to look forward to in session topics: 1) "A.I. and the Digital Front Door: How Pastors Can Use A.I. and Social Media Wisely [Without Selling Your Soul or Losing Your Sanity]" — Josh Givens 2) "Longterm Ministry Endurance" — Stan Givens 3) "Great Commission Discipleship" — Dale Gooding 4) "Preaching or Protesting" — Victor Herman5) "Who Are The Wicked?" — Matt Rutland Interested in attending the Summit? Be sure to register online here: https://614ministries.org/shepherds-summit-2026

This week in the circle: Stan and the guys discuss the need to keep church services active, aware, and alert in the current climate of our country — when potential protests can become seemingly large disruptions. Should you send your church members home in the midst of protests or should you tell protestors to leave your property? We'll tackle that and more in this very timely discussion.  Articles mentioned in this episode: "Protesting at Alabama churches would be felony under new bill""Protecting Houses of Worship" 

This week in the circle: Stan & the guys discuss a recent article from BARNA research that highlights the friendship gap in pastoral life: Strong Marriages, Strained Friendships. Over 90 percent of pastors report strong marriages—but two in five feel lonely, and just one in three have a trusted confidant outside church. [BARNA] Relational Health Lags Behind Other Areas. Despite high scores in faith and vocation, pastors score lowest in relational well-being (67/100)—yet few ask for help in this area. [BARNA] 

This week in the circle, Stan and the guys discuss multiple aspects of what it meant for Pastor Victor Herman to go on "cruise control." 

Season 2, Episode 15: Planning Your YearAfter a brief December break, Stan and the guys are back around the table for a timely and practical conversation about planning the year ahead in ministry.In this episode, they talk through how to thoughtfully plan Bible book studies and sermon series, shape meaningful ministry themes, and prepare well for key moments like Easter, Christmas, and outreach opportunities. The discussion also dives into the importance of evaluating what’s working, what’s not, and having the courage to eliminate “sacred cows” that may be holding your church back.This conversation is all about learning from the past without letting it hinder the future—working harder to build healthier, stronger ministry rhythms as you look ahead to the year God has placed before you.Whether you’re in the early stages of planning or feeling stuck, this episode offers encouragement, wisdom, and practical insight for shepherds who want to lead well in the season ahead.

This week in the circle, Stan and the guys discuss the things that make ministry heavy for pastors and share Scriptures and encouragement to help lighten the load. 

Stan and the guys tackle the importance of networking with other pastors for fellowship and support. 

This week in the circle, Stan and the guys chat with Northside Bible Church elder Josh Hovel about the marks of a healthy church member as they relate to receiving the Word of God. 

What do booty dances, baptism swims, nuclear sirens, women's slips, and Dawn soap all have in common? Stan is back with 10 pastors from our Louisiana network and several stories that help us remember ministry can be fun and funny. 

This week in the circle, Stan continues his discussion with 10 pastors from our Louisiana network (over 400 years of combined experience) and together they cover: Topics they're teaching and why Advice for young pastors The importance of taking personal time for family 

This week in the circle, Stan sits down with 10 pastors from our Louisiana network (over 400 years of combined experience) and together they cover everything from loneliness in ministry to good things happening in local churches and much more. Part one of a three part conversation. 

This week in the circle, Stan wraps out Real Talk With Mississippi Ministers with discussion topics that include everything from wisdom, advice, and personal testimonies to Strange, Weird & Wonderful Stories that include hornets, bats, kids throwing up, and foreign funeral practices. There's never a dull moment on the Shepherds Circle! Part three of a three-part discussion. 

This week in the circle, Stan is joined once again by Pastors Caleb Howell (Howell Baptist), Branden Rogers (Midway Baptist), Lance Sudduth (Hurley Baptist), Malcolm Thorpe (Moselle Methodist Church), and Dean Box (Tanners Chapel). Together with over 140 years of combined ministry experience, the guys cover: advice on finding rest, feeding sheep, handling spiritual paraplegics, and much more! Other fun topics include: hunting, fishing, family time, travel time and sightseeing. Part two of an ongoing discussion. 

This week in the circle, Stan is joined by Pastors Caleb Howell (Howell Baptist), Branden Rogers (Midway Baptist), Lance Sudduth (Hurley Baptist), Malcolm Thorpe (Moselle Methodist Church), and Dean Box (Tanners Chapel). Together, the guys cover everything from ministry challenges, church membership, and personal struggles to accountability, Scriptural encouragement, and much more! Part one of an ongoing discussion. 

This week in the circle Stan and the guys revisit the Charlie Kirk memorial service, what it means for the nation, how his death is impacting local and small churches, and the influence and effect he has had on pastors and ministry leaders. Together they reflect on trends vs. spiritual movements and how pastors should be responding in this exciting time. 

This is the story of The Ridge, a thriving church that launched in 2025 in the poorest county in Mississippi. It began with them admitting they were "dead." With the help of a pastor who led them 40 years ago, things began to change. Here is the magnificent story of how God is rebuilding this church to bless the local and surrounding communities. The RidgeComplete In Christ

Stan wraps out his conversation with Rob Laughter — Director of Summit Online at The Summit Church in Raleigh, NC. Rob is not only a ministry leader, but also the co-host of the AI Creative Podcast and founder of The AI Collaborative. He’s passionate about helping leaders like YOU leverage A.I. tools to boost creativity, productivity, and Kingdom impact. 

Stan & the guys discuss the recent Charlie Kirk tragedy in a special episode. 

Season 2 of The Shepherd's Circle is here and we're kicking things off with a very special guest. If you don’t think you’re using AI… you are. Rob Laughter —  Director of Summit Online at The Summit Church in Raleigh, NC — joins The Shepherd’s Circle to demystify AI for small-church pastors—what it is, how to use it ethically, and how to save hours each week without outsourcing your soul. Rob is co-host of the AI Creative Podcast, and founder of The AI Collaborative—a community of AI enthusiasts. In addition to being an active user of AI tools, Rob is passionate about teaching others how to use them to be more creative and more productive in the roles that God has called them to. Rob and his wife, Cassie, have three girls, ages 12, 10, and 6. In his free time, Rob serves on his campus worship team and produces photo and video content for clients in the bluegrass and roots music industries.

Stan and Karl discuss upcoming trends in ministries and pastoral roles and offer encouragement to those serving in local churches. 

Stan and the guys discuss the importance of remembering to honor longtime seniors in your church as well as ways to honor servant leaders. 

Five pastors discuss how summer youth and children's camps benefit their church families, ministry efforts, and personal lives. — Part 2 

Five pastors discuss how summer youth and children's camps benefit their church families, ministry efforts, and personal lives. 

Stan & the guys discuss pastoral codependency and methods for breaking the habit with a look at the question: "How dependent on you is your church and how well can your church function without you?" We'll look at why it's not healthy for the pastor to do everything for the church and in the church, how to break the cycle, tips for helping your church give you time away, and much more. 

Stan & the guys discuss the importance of staying curious and staying sharp in pastoral ministry — reading books, listening to podcasts, and more. 

This week in the circle, Stan and the guys discuss how to encourage and equip your flock through your preaching, what the evidence of spiritual growth really looks like, and much more. 

Stan and the guys round out the pastor's table talks with more laughter, tips for relaxation and stress relief, pastoral advice, and much more. 

Fun, Favorite Verses, Nothing Wasted — This is part 2 of our pastoral roundtable discussion. Topics include: family, ministry, pastoral life, signs and affirmations, kids stories, protein, God efficiency, and much more! 

Laughter, Tears, Triumphs, and Trials. — Six pastors share personal stories and their hearts for ministry in roundtable, campfire chat-style setting. 

Stan and the guys discuss three questions that you can ask your active members and cover topics like discipleship, equipping, developing, leadership, evangelism, family discipleship, goal setting, spiritual growth, and more. 

Stan and the guys discuss: Limiting the church's personality Ideas to get the church talking Making guests matter Sheep nuggets Church connections Tying stories together Equipping the saints Preaching too long Converts outside the church 

Stan and the guys discuss: Protecting your ministry from pride Dominate leadership issues Limiting ministry effectiveness Body Life Bi-vocational pastors A little PG-13 fun from Song of Solomon 

Stan and the guys discuss some recent stats from Barna, think through modern faith struggles, and touch on Southern Baptists and core values. 

This week in the circle, Stan and the guys touch on: How pride can destroy ministries and relationshipsA few stats on how Gen Z plans to retire Picking the right Bible verse for a wedding 

Stan chats with Church Visuals Founder & Owner Carl Barnhill and 6:14 Ministries Communications Director Josh Givens — who also serves as Director of Training at Church Visuals — about why digital visual media matters when communicating the Gospel effectively. Visit Church Visuals at: https://churchvisuals.com/

Stan and the guys discuss Gen Z's retirement plans, giant lizards, vision sharing, volunteer development, training, volunteer term limits, and more. 

This week on the show, Stan and the guys discuss some recent research data from Barna that suggests members of Gen-Z (ages 13-28) prefer authenticity and value in-person conversations. Also, Victor has a Zacchaeus experience.  

Stan and the guys discuss the recent Shepherds Summit pastoral conference and what they learned from our keynote speaker — Jon Sanders of EntrePastors.com 

Stan and the guys discuss the importance of remaining mission focused and intentional, particularly in light of all the distractions currently swirling in modern day church world. 

The Bible is filled with warning about how prosperity causes us to forget about God. As America faces a more prosperous future the church needs to continually remind its flock that God is our provider and the one in whom we can trust. 

Stan sits down for a chat with Indian Bible Church Pastor Jon Cernak, who has been shepherding the same church since 1987. 

February is a month in which many Americans battle depression at high levels. How should the local church address this sensitive issue? Stan and the guys discuss. 

Welcome to the premiere episode of our brand new podcast: The Shepherds Circle, where three pastors come together to empower, equip, encourage, and entertain the leaders who are shaping the Church. Each week, we will dive into the real challenges, triumphs, and timeless truths that pastors and church leaders face on the frontlines of ministry. If you’re leading the way in faith, this is your space for encouragement, wisdom, insight, and community with those who understand the journey...Pull up a chair, grab a seat, and settle in...'cause you're in The Circle. To kick things off this week, Stan is chatting with Victor about what he's learned in his first three years of pastoral ministry. His answers may surprise you! Victor Herman is the lead pastor at First Baptist Chickasaw in Chickasaw, AL and was previously cohosting alongside Stan on our last podcast: Rescuing Churches.We'll also cover a few cultural issues — including new legislation from the U.S. government protecting children from sex change operations — and we'll touch on growth in suffering, lessons from a young pastor, and some strange, weird, and wonderful moments in ministry. All that and more in this episode! Let's go!