The Healthy Christian Leader

In this episode, Dwight Habermehl speaks with Dr. Cheryl Ann Beals about the importance of soul care for Christian leaders. They explore how soul care—unlike self-care—is rooted in relationship with God and is essential for spiritual growth and lasting impact.They discuss common challenges like distraction, drivenness, and unprocessed wounds that can disconnect leaders from God, as well as key warning signs such as burnout and loss of awareness.The conversation emphasizes the need for intentional time with God, supportive community, and practices like spiritual direction to stay grounded. Ultimately, healthy leadership flows from being with God, not just doing for Him.Support the show

In this episode of The Healthy Christian Leader, Dwight Habermehl and Rachel Quirt explore how integrating pastoral ministry and therapy can deepen a believer’s relationship with Christ. Rachel shares that true spiritual growth comes through honest, vulnerable relationship with God, much like the safe and non-judgmental space created in counseling. They discuss how unresolved pain, unhealthy coping mechanisms, and distorted core beliefs about God can act as barriers to intimacy with Him, often rooted in past experiences or trauma. By learning to sit with difficult emotions, challenge false beliefs, and anchor faith in God’s character and presence, believers can move toward greater freedom and deeper connection with Christ, with therapy serving as a valuable tool to help process and remove those barriers.Support the show

In this episode of The Healthy Christian Leader, Dwight Habermehl talks with Rachel Quirt about how grief, faith, and mental health intersect in both life and leadership. Drawing from her transition from pastoral ministry into counseling and the personal loss of her sister, Rachel shares how grief reveals hidden pain, deepens our understanding of God’s character, and fosters growth when we allow ourselves to fully process it. Together, they highlight the importance of staying spiritually rooted, embracing emotional honesty, and prioritizing regular mental health care, reminding leaders that a healthy inner life is essential for leading others well.Support the show

In this episode of The Healthy Christian Leader Show, Dwight Habermehl talks with Seth Fancy about leading with vulnerability. Seth shares how his journey through anxiety and depression shaped his leadership, emphasizing that vulnerability is most powerful when it comes from healed “scars,” not open wounds. They discuss the balance betweenSupport the show

In this episode of The Healthy Christian Leader Show, Dwight Habermehl sits down with Seth Fancy of King’s Church Halifax to talk about leading in a time of deep cultural and relational division. Seth shares how leaders can foster unity without demanding uniformity by staying grounded in Jesus, loving one another, and remaining committed to the mission. They also discuss the impact of outrage culture, the importance of humility, and how to navigate disagreement with clarity, grace, and a Christlike posture.Support the show

In this episode of the Healthy Christian Leader Show, Dwight Habermehl welcomes Dr. John Roddam to discuss the theme of obedience to the Holy Spirit in leadership. Dr. Roddam shares his journey from a nominal church background in Nova Scotia to discovering a personal relationship with Jesus during university, which shaped his life and ministry.Together they explore how a leader’s understanding of God—as a loving Father rather than a harsh taskmaster—deeply affects their willingness to obey the Spirit’s leading. Dr. Roddam reflects on the identity shift from an “orphan spirit” to living as a child of God and how trust in God makes obedience possible.Through personal stories, they discuss the cost of obedience, the criticism leaders may face when following God’s direction, and how faithfulness in small acts of obedience prepares leaders for greater challenges. The conversation encourages leaders to trust God’s goodness and follow His guidance, knowing that obedience ultimately leads to deeper freedom and the abundant life Jesus promised.Support the show

In this episode of the Healthy Christian Leader Show, Dwight Habermehl speaks with Dr. John Roddam about learning to be attentive to the voice of the Holy Spirit. Dr. Roddam shares his journey from growing up in a nominal Anglican background in Nova Scotia to encountering a personal relationship with Jesus during university, which eventually led him into Anglican priesthood and decades of ministry.Together, they discuss how Christian leaders can grow in recognizing the Holy Spirit’s guidance in everyday life, the importance of balancing Scripture with the Spirit’s leading, and the role of humility and community in discerning God’s voice. Through stories from ministry and personal experience, Dr. Roddam encourages listeners to cultivate a listening posture toward God through prayer, Scripture, mentorship, and a simple willingness to ask and grow in relationship with the Holy Spirit.Support the show

Dwight Habermehl speaks with Esther Lysakovsky of Alpha Canada about the quiet but powerful ways God is moving across Canada. Esther shares stories of growing spiritual curiosity—especially among young adults—and how relational, invitation-based faith conversations are helping people encounter Jesus.Together, they explore the challenges of sharing faith in a pre-Christian culture, the fear of rejection many Christians feel, and the freedom that comes from trusting God to do the transforming work. This encouraging episode reminds listeners that sharing faith is less about having all the answers and more about authentic relationships and showing Jesus’ goodness.Support the show

In this episode of The Healthy Christian Leader Show, host Dwight Habermehl speaks with Esther Lysakovsky of Alpha Canada about the importance of connection and community in today’s digital and disconnected world.Esther shares practical insights on empathy, listening, and intentional relationships, highlighting how spaces like Alpha and The Well foster discovery, healing, and spiritual growth. This conversation encourages leaders to build meaningful, life-giving community through simple, relational intentionality.Support the show

In this episode of The Healthy Christian Leader, Dwight Habermehl speaks with Daria Nardozza, co-founder of City Leaders Collective, about leadership, collaboration, and what God is already doing in our cities.Daria shares how pastors and church leaders can overcome isolation and build meaningful relationships across denominational lines. Drawing from real stories and practical experience, she introduces the concept of community exegesis—helping churches better understand their cities through prayer, data, and listening.This encouraging conversation reminds leaders that God is already at work in our communities, and when leaders come together with humility and curiosity, lasting impact can follow.Support the show

In this episode of The Healthy Christian Leader, Dwight Habermehl sits down with Noreen Smith to explore how God faithfully shapes leaders through every season of life. From business and ministry to family and faith, Noreen shares how surrender, endurance, and listening to God’s voice have guided her leadership journey—and why God never wastes a single chapter of our story.Support the show

In this episode of The Healthy Christian Leader Show, Dwight Habermehl sits down with Noreen Smith to talk about leading in business and ministry without losing your identity in Christ.Noreen shares insights from decades of leadership, reflecting on wearing many hats, navigating intense seasons of responsibility, and learning to balance doing for God with being with Him. She describes how God sustained her through pressure-filled years and led her into a season of renewal and restoration.This episode encourages leaders who feel stretched thin and reminds us that God is faithful in every season.Support the show

In this episode of The Healthy Christian Leader, host Dwight Habermehl continues his conversation with Richard Long, focusing on spiritual renewal and the practices that help leaders stay receptive to the Holy Spirit.Richard reflects on his decades in ministry, his experience of renewal during the 1990s, and the lasting impact of learning to receive daily renewal rather than relying on past encounters. Together, they discuss the importance of humility, spiritual friendships, healthy rhythms of rest, journaling, worship, and cultivating expectancy in leadership.This episode offers practical wisdom and encouragement for leaders who want to remain spiritually alive, emotionally healthy, and deeply connected to the Father’s love.Support the show

In this episode of The Healthy Christian Leader, host Dwight Habermehl sits down with Richard Long for an honest conversation about spiritual dryness, renewal, and staying connected to God as a leader.Richard shares his journey from growing up in a missionary family to years of pastoral ministry, a life-changing renewal experience, and his calling to foster unity in the Body of Christ. Together, they explore the warning signs of spiritual burnout, the connection between emotional and spiritual health, and why seasons of dryness are often invitations into deeper dependence on the Father.This episode offers encouragement and practical wisdom for leaders who feel weary, disconnected, or in need of renewal.Support the show

In this episode of The Healthy Christian Leader Show, host Dwight Habermehl welcomes Dave Witt from True Cityfor a rich conversation on the rhythms of prayer, rest, and community that sustain leaders over the long haul.Drawing from his experience working with pastors and leaders across multiple denominations in Hamilton, Dave shares practical wisdom on cultivating Sabbath rest, developing a life-giving prayer life, and intentionally scheduling space for spiritual and emotional renewal. The conversation highlights the value of drawing from diverse prayer traditions, embracing surrender, and recognizing when imbalance signals the need for rest and recalibration.Dwight and Dave also explore the critical role of community—both within congregations and among peer leaders—in fostering honesty, encouragement, and resilience. Topics include spiritual direction, coaching, intergenerational mentorship, and support for leaders serving in small or isolated communities.This episode offers thoughtful guidance and encouragement for pastors and leaders seeking sustainable rhythms that nurture faith, health, and long-term fruitfulness in ministry and life.Support the show

In this episode of The Healthy Christian Leader, host Dwight Habermel sits down with Dave Witt, leader of True City, for a thoughtful conversation on healthy leadership within citywide initiatives.Dave shares insights from his experience serving pastors and churches across Hamilton, exploring what it takes to remain grounded, energized, and spiritually healthy while carrying both local church and city-level responsibilities. Together, they discuss the importance of trusted friendships, intercessory prayer, spiritual direction, and intentional rhythms of rest—especially quarterly retreats—to sustain clarity and joy in leadership.The conversation also touches on setting healthy limits, navigating seasonal demands, building trust across networks, and leaning into God’s grace amid pressure and uncertainty. This episode offers practical wisdom and encouragement for leaders seeking long-term faithfulness and impact in their cities.Part one of a two-part conversation—be sure to join us for the next episode as the discussion on leader health continues.Support the show

In this episode of the Healthy Christian Leader, host Harry Gardner continues his conversation with Larry Levy, lead pastor of the Halifax Metro Vineyard, focusing on resilience in leadership and the life of the church.Larry shares honestly about seasons of challenge, including a time when he “hit a wall” and needed extended rest and support. Together, they explore how resilience is formed through Sabbath rhythms, self-awareness, mental health care, vulnerability, and allowing others to lead and serve alongside us.The conversation widens to the global church, as Larry reflects on lessons learned from long-term partnerships with churches in Rwanda, Burundi, and beyond. These stories of faith, suffering, and perseverance offer a powerful reminder that God’s strength is often revealed through weakness.Rooted in Scripture and lived experience, this episode invites leaders to rethink resilience—not as self-reliance, but as a shared, Spirit-shaped journey marked by honesty, humility, and grace.Support the show

In this episode of the Healthy Christian Leader Show, host Harry Gardner sits down with longtime pastor and leader Larry Levy, lead pastor of Halifax Metro Vineyard, for a thoughtful and deeply personal conversation on spiritual formation, leadership, and legacy.With nearly three decades of pastoral leadership, Larry reflects on his current season of transition as he prepares to hand off lead leadership while continuing to invest in leadership development and global missions, particularly in Eastern Africa. Together, Harry and Larry explore the spiritual disciplines that have sustained a lifetime of ministry—prayer, Scripture, worship, humility, confession, community, and intentional rhythms of retreat.Larry shares candidly about how spiritual practices must be lived out not only in personal devotion, but within marriage, family life, and leadership relationships. He speaks openly about learning humility through experience, listening to the quiet voice of the Holy Spirit, and allowing God’s Word to shape both character and calling. Worship and music emerge as a central theme in his spiritual formation, alongside practices of fasting, solitude, and annual times of reflection.The conversation also turns toward the next generation of leaders. Larry expresses deep hope as he observes honesty, emotional maturity, and spiritual hunger growing among young leaders today. Both Harry and Larry emphasize the importance of spiritual friendship, mentoring, self-awareness, and the necessity of not leading alone.This episode offers wisdom, encouragement, and practical insight for pastors, marketplace leaders, and anyone seeking to cultivate a healthy, sustainable life of Christian leadership rooted in intimacy with God.Support the show

In this episode of The Healthy Christian Leader, Dwight Habermehl sits down with Dr. Harry Gardner—pastor, former denominational leader, and longtime president of Acadia Divinity College—to explore the spiritual practices that have sustained him over 50 years of ministry.Harry shares how prayer, reflective journaling, worship, forgiveness, and intentionally noticing God’s activity (“I Spy God”) have shaped his walk with Christ. He unpacks how our personalities influence the spiritual disciplines we’re naturally drawn toward, and why every Christian—no matter how they’re wired—still shares core practices like prayer, Scripture, humility, and forgiveness.The conversation also dives into Christian Schwarz’s research on Natural Church Development, including the eight characteristics of a healthy church, the “staves of a barrel” illustration, and how passionate spirituality becomes foundational to genuine church health. Harry highlights why people today are hungry for real life, real relationships, and real spiritual growth—not just church programs.From silence and solitude to worship and pastoral leadership, Harry offers wisdom on how spiritual formation shapes both individuals and congregations. This episode is packed with practical insights for leaders who long to stay connected to Christ and to lead churches toward authentic spiritual vitality.Support the show

In this rich and heartfelt episode of The Healthy Christian Leader, Dwight Habermehl sits down with Dr. Harry Gardner—long-time pastor, denominational leader, former president of Acadia Divinity College, and mentor to leaders across Canada. With over 40 years of ministry experience, Harry shares deeply from his journey of remaining spiritually fresh, emotionally grounded, and committed to God’s call through every season.Harry reflects on the unexpected pathways of his ministry, the importance of prayer, Scripture, and spiritual friendships, and the vital truth that every leader is joined not only to Christ but to His body. He opens up about seasons of fatigue, discerning God’s leading, the role of his wife and trusted friends, and the wisdom of taking intentional rest and annual debriefs.Dwight and Harry explore what renewal looks like, how to recognize when you're running low, and the spiritual practices that keep leaders anchored through transition, challenge, and change. Harry also shares the joy he now finds in mentoring younger pastors and serving Canadian Baptist leaders nationally.Whether you're just starting out in ministry or have been serving for decades, this conversation is full of insight, humility, and encouragement for staying faithful and fresh for the long haul.Support the show

Jay Guptill shares insights on recognizing and recovering from burnout in ministry. He discusses practical steps for restoration, the roles of counseling and coaching, and the importance of physical, emotional, and spiritual self-care. This episode also highlights how church boards can support leaders and foster a culture of rest and renewal.Resources & Connections:Made for More Ministries: https://www.madeformoreministries.ca/Flourishing in Ministry Assessment: https://www.flourishinginministry.org/assessmentEmotionally Healthy Leader Assessment: https://www.emotionallyhealthy.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Leadership-Assessment.pdfQuiet Waters Burnout Survey: https://www.qwaters.org/forms/burned-out-survey/Maslach Burnout Inventory TM (MBI): https://www.mindgarden.com/314-mbi-human-services-surveySupport the show

In this episode of The Healthy Christian Leader Show, host Dwight Habermel sits down with Jay Guptill, a pastor with over 40 years of experience, to explore the importance of preventative care for leaders. They dive into habits and practices that help leaders flourish emotionally, spiritually, and relationally, emphasizing intentionality, self-care, and the foundation of identity in Christ.Jay shares insights on common barriers leaders face when seeking support, including pride, financial constraints, and fear of vulnerability, and offers practical guidance on finding trustworthy mentors or coaches. They discuss the significance of daily and weekly habits such as exercise, rest, meditation, and reflective spiritual practices, highlighting how small, consistent actions can have a major impact on overall well-being.Listeners will gain valuable strategies for recognizing early signs of burnout, creating space for self-care, and fostering habits that sustain long-term effectiveness in ministry and leadership. This episode encourages leaders to be intentional, to embrace vulnerability, and to pursue flourishing, not just survival, in their personal and professional lives.New episodes of The Healthy Christian Leader Show are available weekly in video form on the Aaron Ministries YouTube page and in audio form wherever you get your podcasts. For more resources and to support healthy Christian leadership, visit aaronministries.com.Support the show

In today’s episode of The Healthy Christian Leader, Dwight Habermehl sits down with Dr. Danny Smith, longtime pastor of Middleton Baptist Church in Nova Scotia. Together, they explore the joys and challenges of raising children while navigating the demands of ministry. Danny shares candid reflections from over two decades of pastoral leadership and parenting—from finding balance, managing expectations, and handling transitions, to creating healthy boundaries and cultivating a home filled with grace.He opens up about intentional decisions he and his wife, Lisa, made as their children grew, the importance of allowing kids to discover their own gifts rather than conforming to a “PK mold,” and the role of forgiveness and prayer in maintaining a healthy family culture. Danny also speaks into the wounds some children experience in ministry settings and offers compassionate encouragement for leaders walking through similar seasons.This conversation is rich with wisdom, humility, and hope—an honest look at how God’s faithfulness guides families through every stage of life and ministry.Support the show

In this episode of The Healthy Christian Leader, Dwight Habermehl continues his conversation with Dr. Laurel Buckingham, longtime pastor of Moncton Wesleyan Church and founder of the Buckingham Leadership Institute. Now in his eighties, Dr. Buckingham shares his passion for mentoring leaders across denominations and generations, emphasizing the unity that comes from centering on the Lordship of Christ. He reflects on lessons learned from decades of mentoring, the importance of community and “mentoring constellations,” and how both older and younger leaders can learn from one another. Filled with wisdom, humility, and hope, this conversation offers a compelling vision for kingdom collaboration and lifelong growth in ministry.Support the show

In this episode of The Healthy Christian Leader, Dwight Habermehl sits down with Dr. Laurel Buckingham, longtime pastor of Moncton Wesleyan Church in New Brunswick, to reflect on more than four decades of faithful leadership in one community. Laurel shares how a clear vision of kingdom impact, steady spiritual rhythms, and a lifelong commitment to learning kept him rooted and refreshed through seasons of change and challenge. With warmth and wisdom, he offers practical insights on perseverance, discerning God’s timing, and the enduring significance of the local church.Support the show

Aaron Ministries has the vision to see Healthy Leaders leading Healthy Churches that transform communities with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Resourcing Pastors and Christian Leaders through the Healthy Christian Leaders Podcast is one way that we strive to do this. In this episode of The Healthy Christian Leader, host Dwight Habermehl talks with John Campbell, Director of Development and Technology for Education at Acadia Divinity College, about the ethical and practical challenges of using AI in ministry. Drawing on his background in both IT and pastoral work, John shares how pastors can use AI wisely while maintaining authenticity, transparency, and spiritual discernment. He warns against over-reliance on technology that could limit Christ’s lordship or replace Spirit-led work, emphasizing the importance of understanding how AI functions and using trusted theological sources. Together, they discuss how the Imago Dei reminds us that people—not machines—carry God’s image, and that efficiency should never come at the cost of human connection. John also highlights emerging trends like AI-assisted translation and personalized spiritual tools, encouraging church leaders to stay informed, use technology responsibly, and keep ministry centered on relationship, wisdom, and the leading of the Holy Spirit.Check out our website, podcast and more here: https://linktr.ee/aaronministriesnetworkDonate to our ministry:https://aaronministries.com/give/Support the show

In this episode of The Healthy Christian Leader, host Dwight Habermehl talks with John Campbell from Acadia Divinity College about the world of artificial intelligence and its growing impact on pastoral ministry. John shares how his background in technology and ministry has helped him see AI as both a challenge and a powerful tool for the church. Together, they explore how pastors can use AI for sermon preparation, research, translation, and administrative support—especially in smaller churches—while also setting clear ethical boundaries and maintaining authenticity in ministry. From real-time translation that bridges language barriers to AI-assisted devotionals, this conversation highlights how technology, when used wisely and prayerfully, can enhance rather than replace the work of ministry.Support the show

In this episode of The Healthy Christian Leader Show, host Dwight Habermehl welcomes back Rev. Dr. Peter Lohnes, Senior Pastor at Grace Memorial Baptist in Fredericton, to talk about leading with grace during change and uncertainty. Drawing from decades of ministry experience, Peter reflects on what it means to lead with confidence and compassion when facing disruption—whether in the church, workplace, or personal life. Together, Dwight and Peter discuss lessons from the COVID season, how to foster peace and spiritual confidence amid confusion, and how leaders can shepherd their teams and congregations through times of rapid change. They explore key leadership postures such as humility, empathy, and trust in God’s faithfulness, and highlight the importance of spiritual preparation, prayer, and rest before crises arise. This conversation offers deep encouragement and practical wisdom for anyone seeking to lead faithfully through seasons of transition and uncertainty.Support the show

In this episode of The Healthy Christian Leader Show, host Dwight Habermehl talks with Rev. Dr. Peter Lohnes, Senior Pastor at Grace Memorial Baptist in Fredericton, about how pastors and ministry leaders can navigate healthy transitions. Drawing from nearly four decades in ministry and his doctoral research titled Leading While Leaving, Peter shares wisdom on discerning when it’s time to move on, processing the emotions of change, and helping congregations grieve and prepare for what’s next. He highlights the importance of honesty, grace, and intentional leadership through seasons of transition, as well as the value of spiritual direction, counseling, and taking time for renewal between ministries. This insightful conversation offers practical guidance and encouragement for leaders seeking to finish well and lead faithfully through change.Support the show

In today’s episode of The Healthy Christian Leader, Dwight Habermehl sits down with Rob Laidlaw, pastor and author of Demystifying Deliverance, to explore the challenging and often misunderstood topic of discerning evil spirits. Drawing on over 20 years of experience in freedom ministry, Rob shares practical insights for identifying spiritual strongholds, differentiating between psychological issues and spiritual influence, and addressing them through discipleship and the authority of Jesus Christ. Listeners will learn about common warning signs, subtle and overt manifestations, and the importance of guiding individuals toward truth and trust in God rather than focusing solely on deliverance. Rob emphasizes that true spiritual freedom comes from helping people embrace God’s Word and grow in their relationship with Him. This conversation is filled with real-life examples, wisdom for church leaders, and encouragement for anyone interested in understanding spiritual discernment. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that challenges, equips, and inspires believers to approach ministry and discipleship with both discernment and compassion.Support the show

In today’s episode of The Healthy Christian Leader, Dwight Habermehl sits down with Rob Laidlaw, author of Demystifying Deliverance, to explore the connection between deliverance and discipleship. Rob explains that deliverance is not just about removing an evil spirit—it’s about addressing the deeper spiritual issues and distrust in God that allow such influences to take hold. They discuss how idols, lies, and unmet desires can distort our faith, leading us to seek “Jesus plus something” instead of trusting God fully. Rob shares practical insights on identifying lies we believe about ourselves and God, breaking free from them, and embracing the truth of God’s love and provision. The episode closes with a discussion on abiding in Jesus through His Word, highlighting how spiritual growth and freedom come through ongoing discipleship rather than one-time experiences.Support the show

In this episode of The Healthy Christian Leader, Dwight Habermehl continues the conversation with Pastor and author Rob Laidlaw on the theme of Demystifying Deliverance. Rob shares how his own ministry journey led him into 20 years of learning and experience in helping people find freedom in Christ. Together, Dwight and Rob explore key questions about spiritual bondage and freedom—such as whether a believer can be affected by evil spirits, how points of access form in a person’s life, and why truth encounters are often more effective than simple power confrontations. Rob emphasizes that deliverance is not about fear or emotionalism, but about bringing lies into the light, surrendering every part of life to the Holy Spirit, and walking in the authority of Jesus with clarity and confidence. This episode provides practical insight and encouragement for leaders who want to guide people toward genuine freedom in Christ.Support the show

In today’s episode of The Healthy Christian Leader, Dwight Habermehl sits down with Pastor and author Rob Laidlaw to talk about his new book Demystifying Deliverance. Rob shares insights from over 20 years of ministry in church planting and helping people find freedom in Christ. Together, they explore what it means to be made in the image of God, how humanity lost its role as God’s representative rulers, and how Jesus restores us to that identity through the cross. The conversation highlights the reality of spiritual warfare, why many churches shy away from the topic, and how leaders can practically walk in their God-given authority with confidence rather than fear. This episode offers both theological clarity and practical encouragement for ministry leaders seeking to embrace their role as God’s representatives in the world.Support the show

In today’s episode of The Healthy Christian Leader, Dwight Habermehl sits down with Pastor Sweis Ubels from Middleton, Nova Scotia. Sweis shares his experiences leading Emmanuel Church, a diverse and “Messy Church” community, where people from all walks of life—ranging in age, background, and abilities—come together. He discusses the challenges and joys of leading compassionate discipleship in a diverse setting, fostering authentic relationships, and encouraging meaningful engagement across the church. Through practical examples, from small group discipleship to community events like weddings and meal programs, Sweis demonstrates how faithfulness, love, and collaboration with other churches can transform lives and build a thriving, inclusive church community. This episode is a rich conversation about servant leadership, authenticity, and embracing God’s call in every circumstance.Support the show

In today’s episode of The Healthy Christian Leader, host Dwight Habermehl sits down with Pastor Sweis Ubels from Middleton, Nova Scotia. Sweis shares his remarkable journey from growing up as a pastor’s kid in the Netherlands, to farming in Alberta, and eventually being called into pastoral ministry. He opens up about his unexpected stage 4 cancer diagnosis, the challenges of leading through suffering, and how vulnerability, community, and prayer have carried him through. Together, Dwight and Sweis reflect on choosing faith over fear, the role of joy and worship in difficult seasons, and the power of unity in the Body of Christ. This conversation is both deeply encouraging and challenging for leaders navigating trials while seeking to live authentically in Christ.Support the show

Aaron Ministries has the vision to see Healthy Leaders leading Healthy Churches that transform communities with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Resourcing Pastors and Christian Leaders through the Healthy Christian Leaders Podcast is one way that we strive to do this. In today’s episode of The Healthy Christian Leader Show, host Dwight Habermehl sits down with Leanne Friesen, Executive Minister of the Canadian Baptists of Ontario and Quebec and author of Grieving Room: Making Space for All the Hard Things After Death and Loss. Together, they explore pastoral care strategies for grief and loss, focusing on how church leaders can walk alongside grieving congregants without burning out. Leanne shares insights on the role of pastors as “sheepdogs” guiding people to the Good Shepherd, the importance of creating space for lament in worship, and practical ways to acknowledge grief through church life and milestones. They also discuss how to recognize when grief requires additional support, and the countercultural need to resist skipping funerals or avoiding sadness. The conversation equips leaders with both spiritual and pragmatic tools to support grievers with compassion, presence, and love.Check out our website, podcast and more here: https://linktr.ee/aaronministriesnetworkDonate to our ministry:https://aaronministries.com/give/Support the show

In today’s episode of The Healthy Christian Leader Show, host Dwight Habermehl sits down with Leanne Friesen, Executive Minister of the Canadian Baptists of Ontario and Quebec. Leanne shares her journey from Newfoundland to ministry leadership, the impact of losing her sister to cancer, and how grief has shaped both her life and her new book Grieving Room. Together, they explore what it means for pastors to stay spiritually healthy while grieving, how to set limits in ministry, and how God meets us in silence and sorrow. This conversation is full of honesty, wisdom, and encouragement for leaders navigating loss.Support the show

In this inspiring episode of The Healthy Christian Leader Show, host Dwight Habermehl welcomes Jesiel Falcao — civil engineer, minister of the gospel, and missionary from Brazil to Canada. Jesiel shares his remarkable journey from working alongside his father as a boy in Brazil’s construction industry, to leading large-scale infrastructure projects, and to building congregations in Canada.Drawing from decades in both marketplace and ministry leadership, Jesiel offers practical wisdom on bringing integrity and “kingdom culture” into professional settings, navigating challenges when workplace values clash with biblical convictions, and creating a culture of respect, excellence, and care without being preachy. He also shares powerful examples of following the Holy Spirit’s leading in critical, high-stakes decisions, including a testimony from a multi-million-dollar bridge project in São Paulo.Jesiel encourages believers to trust God with their work and responsibilities, taking incremental steps of faith toward full surrender. He also reflects on passing on a legacy that may extend beyond family to the greater family of God. Packed with real-life stories, biblical principles, and encouragement for leaders facing difficult choices, this conversation challenges listeners to see their work as an opportunity to live out their faith and impact lives for Christ.Support the show

In today’s episode of The Healthy Christian Leader Show, host Dwight Habermehl sits down with Jesiel Falcao, a civil engineer from Brazil who followed God’s call to Canada for cross-cultural ministry. Jesiel shares how a vision from his wife sparked years of prayer, ultimately leading their family to Halifax with no connections, little English, and a willingness to serve wherever God opened the door. The conversation explores the challenges and blessings of adapting to a new culture, integrating into a Canadian church, and navigating the “honeymoon” and “pressure” stages of immigration. Jesiel recounts how a small Brazilian Bible study in his home grew to over 150 people, and how the focus shifted from creating a separate cultural church to fostering integration within the broader Rock Church community. Together, Dwight and Jesiel discuss how the Brazilian congregation’s warmth, hospitality, and joy revitalized fellowship in the church, the importance of understanding cultural differences in leadership, and practical advice for churches that want to reach other people groups—without leaving Canada. This inspiring episode is a reminder that unity in Christ transcends language and culture, and that diversity, when embraced, strengthens the local church.Support the show

In this episode of the Healthy Christian Leader Show, host Dwight Habermehl welcomes returning guest Reid Stairs for an honest conversation about rediscovering the joy of serving God’s people. A self-described “deeply committed introvert,” Reid shares how he moved from struggling to enjoy people to delighting in them after decades of ministry. Together, they explore why leaders can lose their joy, the importance of seeing others through God’s eyes, letting the Word and Spirit do the work, guarding against cynicism and burnout, and the value of rest and encouragement. Through Scripture, real-life stories, and practical wisdom, Dwight and Reid remind leaders that God isn’t finished with people yet—and that joy often grows when we stop trying to fix others and simply walk with them in love.Support the show

In today’s episode of The Healthy Christian Leader, Dwight Habermehl sits down with Reid Stairs, a seasoned pastor with over 45 years of ministry experience. Together, they explore the importance of cultivating joy in leadership, how to avoid becoming bitter with age, and practical ways to “waste time with Jesus” to stay refreshed. Reid shares insights on leading from delight rather than duty, finding God’s presence in creation, and the ripple effect joy has on teams and congregations. This conversation is an encouraging reminder that the joy of the Lord truly is our strength.Support the show

In today's episode of The Healthy Christian Leader Dwight Habermehl sits down with Chris Ivany, lead pastor at The Rock Church, about leading with vision, values, and a deep reliance on the Holy Spirit. Chris shares how The Rock has become a presence-centered church, committed to prayer, generosity, and serving the community.They talk about honouring the past while stepping into new opportunities across Halifax and beyond—trusting that as they reach the province, God will continue to bless the city. Chris also offers practical wisdom for pastors entering new communities: start with prayer and partner with others for kingdom impact.Support the show

In this episode of The Healthy Christian Leader, Pastor Chris Ivany, lead pastor of Rock Church in Lower Sackville, Nova Scotia, shares his journey from growing up in the church to stepping into leadership just before the COVID-19 pandemic. He reflects on the church’s rich history, beginning in Beaver Bank, and the early days marked by a powerful move of God. Pastor Chris opens up about the challenges of leading through difficult, “slogging” seasons, the generational impact of long-term faithfulness, and how the pandemic became a catalyst for renewed vision and growth. Throughout the conversation, he emphasizes the importance of relying on the Holy Spirit, trusting God’s timing, and staying the course even in times of rebuilding. His story is a timely encouragement for leaders navigating seasons of transition or perseverance.Support the show

In this episode of the Healthy Christian Leader Show, host Rachel Habermehl welcomes Dr. Terry Branscombe from Long Island to explore the vital role of clear communication in effective leadership. Drawing from personal experiences in ministry and leadership, Branscombe shares insights on the importance of emotional security, vulnerability, and integrity for leaders. Together, they reflect on biblical examples such as Moses and Aaron, highlighting how great leaders recognize their weaknesses, delegate wisely, and invite others into shaping the vision.Branscombe emphasizes that leadership requires courage — the willingness to step into the unknown, be honest about limitations, and embrace the journey alongside others. The conversation also touches on the challenges of leading well through change, making tough decisions with humility, and fostering an environment where open, loving communication thrives.Listeners will gain practical wisdom on how to lead with clarity, authenticity, and emotional maturity, encouraging them to embrace both their strengths and vulnerabilities as they serve others.Support the show

Rachel Habermehl sits down with Dr. Terry Branscombe, CEO of Inspire FM, to discuss the power of communication in leadership. Terry shares personal stories and insights from his ministry journey, highlighting the importance of clear, intentional communication and aligning actions with words. Drawing inspiration from Jesus’ example as a leader and communicator, they explore how leaders can effectively inspire trust, hope, and vision in their communities.Support the show

In today’s episode of The Healthy Christian Leader, Dwight Habermehl sits down with long-time friend and ministry leader Larry Levy for a powerful conversation on the importance of fellowship and camaraderie among Christian leaders. Together, they reflect on the loneliness that often accompanies leadership, particularly in pastoral roles, and the deep need for authentic connection. Larry shares how investing in relationships with other leaders—what he calls “fellow soldiers in arms”—has been vital to his spiritual health, longevity in ministry, and personal growth. They discuss the shift from surface-level ministerial gatherings to meaningful, heart-level friendships that sustain leaders through discouragement, temptation, and burnout. Larry also recounts how God used moments of intentional outreach—like a simple lunch with a fellow leader—to birth life-giving friendships. Whether in Nova Scotia, across Canada, or around the world, this episode reminds us that we were never meant to lead alone.Support the show

In today’s episode of The Healthy Christian Leader, Dwight Habermehl sits down with long-time friend and ministry leader Larry Levy for a powerful conversation about the role of prayer, obedience, and prophetic ministry in a leader’s life.Larry shares his journey from the small coastal communities of Nova Scotia to becoming a leader who has helped shape a culture of intercession and spiritual discernment across the province. With humility and conviction, he reflects on the importance of listening to the Holy Spirit, obeying God’s leading even when it’s costly, and creating space for the prophetic in the local church.Together, Dwight and Larry explore the connection between sustained prayer and lasting fruit in ministry, the challenge of waiting on God’s timing, and the way spiritual intimacy with the Lord strengthens a leader’s resilience. Larry’s heart for encouraging and equipping others shines through as he recounts stories of breakthrough that began in quiet places of prayer.Whether you’re leading a church, a ministry, or simply seeking to grow in your relationship with God, this episode offers wisdom, encouragement, and a fresh call to intimacy with Jesus.Support the show

In today’s episode of The Healthy Christian Leader, Rachel sits down with Dr. Richard MacGillivray to continue their conversation on leadership—this time focusing on team dynamics. They unpack what it means for a team to grow in maturity, how to navigate disagreement in healthy ways, and how conflict, when handled well, can actually strengthen your team. Whether you're leading in ministry, business, or your community, this episode offers practical insights to help you lead more effectively.Support the show

In today’s episode, Rachel sits down with Dr. Richard MacGillivray, a retired psychologist with over 40 years of experience in leadership development and mental health. Together, they dive deep into what it truly means to be a healthy and effective leader in today’s complex world. Dr. MacGillivray shares insights on balancing agentic leadership—being decisive and goal-oriented—with communal leadership, which emphasizes empathy, collaboration, and building strong relationships. They discuss practical strategies leaders can use to build trust within their teams, foster open communication, and navigate conflicts with grace and wisdom. Throughout the conversation, Rachel and Dr. MacGillivray highlight how Christian values can shape leadership, encouraging listeners to lead with integrity, humility, and a servant’s heart. Whether you’re leading a ministry, a business, or simply looking to grow personally, this episode offers valuable lessons and encouragement for anyone seeking to make a positive impact through healthy leadership.Support the show

In this episode, Dwight Habermehl sits down with Tim Dickau, a well-known pastor and author with a rich history of pioneering church movements and fostering community engagement. Tim shares insights from his decades of ministry experience, focusing on how churches can shift from traditional models to becoming living communities deeply connected to their neighborhoods.Tim discusses the power of incarnational ministry—being present with people in everyday life—and how this shapes authentic faith communities. He highlights innovative approaches like community meals, social enterprises, and creative arts programs that break down barriers and invite meaningful participation.A central theme of the conversation is confession—both personal and corporate—as a vital spiritual practice that promotes healing, transparency, and relational depth within the church. Tim recounts how moments of honest confession and vulnerability can prevent division and foster a culture of trust and grace.The episode offers practical wisdom for Christian leaders looking to cultivate churches that embody mission, humility, and presence, emphasizing that true church life happens beyond Sunday gatherings through genuine relationships and shared purpose.Support the show