The Shepherd-hearted Leader Podcast

In this episode of the Shepherd-hearted Leader Podcast, Nate unpacks Samuel’s role in anointing and journeying with David, challenging leaders to see themselves as “Samuel” rather than “David” by recognizing and investing in who God is forming around them for the long haul. They discuss how insecurity and performance-based identity make leaders unsafe, why it must be safe to live and work “under your roof,” and the difference between coaching and mentoring.

In this episode, Jodi sits down with Nate to kick off a short series based on Nate’s new book Reaching Into Their Future, exploring what it looks like for leaders to see beyond people’s present circumstances and speak blessing, purpose, and hope into who God is forming them to become, especially in a culture that often pulls us toward self-centeredness.

Nate Ruch welcomes Irving Fryar to the Shepherd Hearted Leader podcast for an honest conversation about grit, grace, and leadership forged through real life. Irving shares more of his journey (from a long NFL career into pastoral ministry), why giving his testimony has been deeply personal, and how leaders can stay faithful through trials. Please rate and review! We appreciate you ❤️

Jonathan Weibel is an author, minister, and comedian. In this episode, Jonathan joins Jodi Ruch for a powerful conversation about what it truly means to love God and love our neighbors, drawing from his book Front Yard Mission. They discuss his personal story and the Front Yard Mission movement. Jonathan also shares about the rhythms of prayer and presence, along with practical ways leaders can build intentional relationships right where they live. It’s a timely reminder for shepherd-hearted leaders to stay missional and keep the Great Commandment central, even when the world tries to pull us apart. https://frontyardmission.com/book/

In this episode, Jodi Ruch sits down with Jordy and Angie Savageau to hear the backstory of their tithing testimony. The Savageaus openly share about their years of struggle and how the Lord rebuilt their lives through hard work, obedience, and discipline. They describe the sacrifices they made to overcome a major financial setback. The conversation touches on realigning priorities, trusting God, caring for family, learning to budget, and making consistent choices for a better future. They express deep gratitude for how God shaped their character through the process, recognizing that their years of struggle were redeemed—and now they have a passion to see others experience God’s blessings through faithfulness and obedience. Resources: https://www.ramseysolutions.com/ Money Talks message: https://youtu.be/Gs4zQ1S2-EM?si=i64r_h4HhJ9EktjV About Jordan & Angie: https://www.remax.com/real-estate-agents/angela-savageau-blaine-mn/101909776#

Nate Ruch talks with Bill Tibbetts, VP of Education and Multiplication at The Stone Table, about breaking the sacred–secular divide. Bill shares why our identity in Christ shapes how we show up at work, how excellence opens doors for witness, and how frameworks like Knowledge, Virtues, and Skills equip marketplace leaders. From small groups to global business-as-mission, this conversation will help you see your everyday work as an act of worship and mission. https://www.thestonetable.org/

What does it take to build a marriage that can handle anything life brings? In this episode, Nate and Jodi Ruch talk with Danny and Stephanie Gutierrez—veteran pastors, missionaries, and marriage ministry leaders—about lessons from 26 years of marriage and two decades of ministry. They share practical wisdom for couples who want to thrive in every season of life, as well as their heart for Foot Rock, the nonprofit they founded to provide retreats and support for international ministry leaders, Spanish-speaking pastors, and missionaries. Whether you’re in ministry or simply looking to strengthen your relationship, this conversation is packed with encouragement, honesty, and hope. Resources: www.footrock.org

In this episode Jodi Ruch sits down with Brad Dennis, pastor, retired navy, search and rescue leader, and founder of Called2Rescue Ministries. In this conversation, they explore what it means to show up for people with a shepherd’s heart. Brad shares stories from the front lines of anti-trafficking work, recounts moments of deep impact and transformation, and challenges us all to remember who we were before Jesus found us. You will be inspired to join the fight! https://www.c2rministries.org Please rate and review! We appreciate you ❤️

What happens when ministry and family overlap? In this honest and heartfelt episode, Chy and Camry, both daughters-in-law in the Ruch family, share what it’s really like to navigate leadership, parenting, expectations, boundaries, and burnout while serving in ministry. From legacy pressure to finding personal identity, and from setting family-first boundaries to protecting their kids’ privacy, this conversation is full of wisdom, laughter, and relatable moments for anyone in church leadership or a ministry family. https://youtu.be/9MKUNlyDYSU?si=taf300oi9ax_7VV5 https://youtu.be/JgFKt7KfrGc?si=1ZRVXiiuzdLhThSa

In this powerful bonus episode from Holy Spirit Night, Pastor Wayne Northup joins us to unpack the baptism of the Holy Spirit, not as a distant doctrine, but as a life-changing, empowering gift for every believer. With humor, clarity, and deep insight, Pastor Wayne explains who the Holy Spirit is, why His baptism matters, and how to receive it. Whether you’re new or hungry for more, this message will stir your faith and equip you to lead with power and purpose.

Are you leading others but holding back on one of the greatest gifts? In this powerful episode of the Shepherd-Hearted Leader podcast, Pastor Nate Ruch and Pastor Wayne Northrup unpack the baptism of the Holy Spirit, not as a distant doctrine, but as a practical, essential part of Christian leadership and life. Hear the benefits of the life changing gift of the Holy Spirit, stories from the altar, leadership tips, and how to model Spirit-empowered living without hype or pressure. Resources: https://saintscommunitychurch.com/ https://youtu.be/UOzSlIfHiV4?si=swPImWzq3a5-vgD6

In this episode, Dr. Nate and Jodi Ruch sit down with Dr. Rob Reimer, author, speaker, and founder of Renewal International, for a conversation about identity, healing, and what it means to lead from a place of wholeness. Rob shares personal stories from his marriage, ministry, and moments of deep struggle, offering wisdom for anyone desiring true transformation and lasting revival. Whether you’re leading in a church, home, or workplace, this episode will speak to your soul. Resources: https://renewalinternational.org/

Dr. Scott and Karen Hagan join Jodi Ruch to share powerful lessons from 42 years of marriage, parenting, and ministry. From early struggles to deep faith and lasting love, they offer real stories and practical wisdom for couples at any stage. Hear how they built unity in their family, overcame challenges, and continue to inspire others through their book No Ordinary Promise. http://levelbestleader.org https://levelbestleader.myshopify.com/products/no-ordinary-promise Please rate and review! We appreciate you ❤️

In this powerful episode of The Shepherd-Hearted Leader, Dr. Nate Ruch sits down with Dr. Doug Graham, Interim President of North Central University, and Dr. Darnell Williams, the newly appointed President-Elect, for an honest and inspiring conversation about leadership in transition. From personal stories of calling and sacrifice to navigating uncertainty and casting vision, this episode offers rich insights for leaders in every season. Together, they unpack what it means to lead with a shepherd’s heart during a pivotal moment in North Central’s history, highlighting the importance of trust, humility, and legacy in a God-honoring handoff. https://www.amazon.com/Wing-Rise-Blacks-Leadership-Assemblies/dp/057880204X?sr=8-1 https://www.youtube.com/live/o2kDqhblBiA

On this episode of The Shepherd-Hearted Leader podcast, Jodi Ruch and Audrey Johnson have a conversation about the power of women’s events. Sisterhood Nights aren’t just gatherings—they’re a catalyst to bring women together to encounter God and experience community at church. Join us as we talk about the history of Emmanuel Sisterhood Nights, the work behind each event, why it matters, and how these events have grown into a popular place for women to connect with God and each other. Shepherd hearted leaders will be inspired to minister to women within a context that reaches them and eventually their families.

In this episode, Jodi Ruch sits down with Lisa Kingsbury, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), who specializes in Trauma and PTSD. The conversation includes an explanation of trauma and PTSD including signs and causation. They talk about the impact of trauma in Veterans, First Responders and others who have experienced threatening events. They talk about how to help those who are suffering from trauma and PTSD. Resources: www.tilahcare.com

In this episode, Jodi Ruch sits down with Darlene Cook and David Nithang from Door of Hope Ministries to discuss the realities of trauma and abuse. We explore the different types of abuse, how they impact lives and relationships, and the importance of healing within the church. Darlene and David also share practical ways to support those who are struggling and create safe spaces for recovery. If you or someone you know has experienced trauma or abuse, this conversation offers hope and resources for healing. https://www.doorofhopeministries.org/

No one gets through life without a few wounds. In the church there are more people suffering from the effects of domestic abuse than we realize. In this episode, Diane Stores shares her personal story of escaping an abusive marriage. She shares the story behind the ministries of “Door of Hope” and “The Dwelling Place” which she founded. Listeners will gain insight on the pain of abuse and how to create a safe place for individuals, in the church, to heal. https://www.doorofhopeministries.org

Have you ever wondered what it takes to be a great spiritual leader? Our guest, Ryan Skoog, researched the practices of some of the best spiritual leaders to find out their secret. Ryan is cofounder and president of VENTURE.ORG, a nonprofit that works in the toughest places of the world. He co-authored the best-selling book "Lead with Prayer.” In this episode, Nate Ruch and Ryan Skoog have a conversation about leading with prayer. Learn the secrets of great spiritual leaders who found their friendship with God to be the bedrock of success. Resources: https://www.leadwithprayer.com/ https://www.venture.org/

When you think prayer do you think boring? Is prayer only for the super-Christian? This episode will answer those questions and more. Nate and Jodi have a conversation with prayer enthusiast Kevin Senapatiratne. Kevin is a nationally recognized minister and founder of Christ Connection, a ministry to ignite pastors and churches to adventure with Jesus through prayer. In this episode, Kevin shares impactful, easy to implement prayer strategies to maximize momentum and create a culture of prayer in every aspect of your life and ministry. Resources: https://christconnection.cc/ https://www.youtube.com/@christconnection https://a.co/d/hkIdMDl https://a.co/d/iZNxAo9 https://a.co/d/7zSWY7p Please rate and review! We appreciate you ❤️

Did you ever wonder how a decision today can impact the future? We all can make a difference in those around us. In this episode Nate and Jodi have a conversation about moving the Kingdom of God forward in the lives around us. The conversation begins with a brief Argentina trip recap. Nate talks about the importance of releasing people into ministry and the word that has been resonating in his heart. It’s time to be inspired to set things into motion!

Do you ever wonder how ministry kids are affected by their parents’ role at church? Every kid has a different experience and story to tell. In this episode, Jodi Ruch has a conversation with son Jeffrey Ruch as he reflects on growing up in a minister’s home and how it impacted his life. They talk about the early days of Nate’s ministry and the pressures that came with becoming a “Pastor’s Kid.” This conversation is full of personal stories and lessons learned. Great episode for all who want to help kids love God and love the church!

Do you ever feel like quitting? It isn't always easy to stay on track living a life of purpose. In this episode, Pastor Jodi Ruch has a conversation with Pastor Clarence and Vicki St. John, the former Superintendent of the Minnesota Assemblies of God. The St. Johns share their backstory and calling into ministry. They talk about the challenges of following God’s voice when planting a church on the Iron Range in Hibbing, Minnesota. The conversation includes the obstacles they faced, moments of divine intervention, the power of prayer, and the revival that ensued. Their church grew in crazy ways with many people finding Jesus! The conversation concludes with their journey to becoming the Superintendent and their life post-retirement. This episode is full of encouragement and faith-filled stories for those praying for revival! https://mnaog.org/

Do you have young adults in your life who you dream will flourish in a Godly way? So many critical life decisions are made in this season! In this episode, Pastor Nate Ruch has a conversation with Pastors Josiah and Micah Kennealy, the founders of Young Adults Today, a nonprofit ministry reaching young adults. Both are pastors, authors, podcasters and speakers. In this episode, they share about the primary needs of young adults which include resources, rallying points, and relationships. They offer insight on dating, debt, mentorship, how to cross the generational divide and the challenges of isolation and deception. Shepherd-hearted leaders can offer Christ, community, and connection within the local church. 1. FREE ebook “10 steps to starting a successful young adult ministry” https://www.youngadults.today/book/starting-a-successful-young-adult-ministry Our website is www.youngadults.today and it has blogs, books, resources 2. youngadultstoday podcast on apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/youngadults-today/id1477787085

Rev. Mark Ritchie is an evangelist based out of the United Kingdom. Originally from Scotland, he is a speaker, podcaster, storyteller, comedian, gospel proclaimer, and passionate rescuer. In this episode, Pastor Nate has a conversation with Mark about his backstory, the gift of the evangelist, and his journey of carrying the cross across the United Kingdom. Mark shares five lessons from the cross: 1) tears will take you far, 2) choose wise people to speak into your life, 3) find the sacred in the scared, 4) let the cross do its work, and 5) never forget the Father sent you. The conversation concludes with a discussion about how “honor” is sometimes misused to manage egos. Humility is essential for every Shepherd-hearted Leader. Don’t miss this episode. https://www.emmanuelcc.org/sermon/you-really-love-yourself-dont-you/ https://www.mark-ritchie.com/ https://a.co/d/du6l9bP

Pastors Nate and Jodi have a conversation about being a House of Prayer for All Nations. They start by sharing what has been on their hearts. Pastor Nate shares pivotal moments in his story that shaped his heart for all nations, his early years at Emmanuel, the community surrounding the church, and the heart of the ministry. He digs into Jesus’ picture of the church in Mark 11 and Isaiah 56 which includes all nations being welcomed into the church, not just the church praying for the nations. They talk about prayer, the benefits and challenges of being a House of Prayer for All Nations, and narratives outside the church which impact the conversation. The episode wraps up with advice for Shepherd-hearted leaders navigating this political season.

Every church, organization, and community experience different seasons. In this episode, Pastors Nate and Jodi have a conversation about approaching every season with optimism – it’s a reset. Nate uses the analogy of the Minnesota Vikings to explain the rhythm of seasons and the challenges organizations face such as teammate changes, prepping the current team, excepting limits, defining the win, and moving on from losses. Pastor Nate dives into his leadership thoughts about Emmanuel’s Team 62 and explains three keys to seeing the team win this season: 1) Dramatically increase Team Emmanuel 2) All Generations invest in the next Generation and 3) Pray in the Spirit. The conversation wraps up with heartfelt advice for Shepherd-hearted leaders who find themselves in an unexpected season.

Jodi Ruch has a conversation with Brad Dennis and Michael Bartel about searching for God’s missing kids. Brad is former military search and rescue specialist, pastor, and founder of Called 2 Rescue Ministries. Michael Bartel is a missionary and founder of F.R.E.E. International, an organization designed to search for missing and trafficked kids in the United States. In this episode, they share their faith background, how they started searching for missing kids, ministering with their families, the Big Search, the scope of the missing kids’ crisis in the US, and a pathway for church involvement. How do they find missing kids? They go out looking for them! This conversation will ignite your compassion for shepherding the most vulnerable in your community. https://www.freeinternational.org/ https://www.c2rministries.org/

Dwight Denyes was the second lead pastor of Emmanuel. He considered himself a leader between leaders. He played a crucial role in the story of Emmanuel. Dwight is the oldest son of the founding Pastors of Emmanuel, Mark and Shirley Denyes. Before succeeding his father as lead pastor, Dwight was a successful real estate business owner and Bible teacher. In this episode, Dwight shares his personal faith story and how it impacted the way he led. He has a unique perspective on succession as he received the succession baton and later passed the leadership baton to Pastor Nate. This conversation is full of great insight, practical wisdom, and Emmanuel history!

Pastor Manny Melendez is a Kids Ministry veteran with over two decades of experience leading Kids Ministry. In this episode, you will get to know Manny as he shares his story of coming to Christ and his call to ministry. Jodi and Manny talk about the difference between ministry and childcare, discipling kids, and creating a kids culture. The conversation includes the importance and challenges of kids ministry as well as the opportunity to make an impact. Kids are sponges who absorb their environment, as Shepherd-hearted leaders, we can saturate them with Jesus! Manny served in Michigan and Colorado before moving to Minnesota. This summer he joined the Pastoral Team of Emmanuel as the Lead Kids Pastor overseeing EKids at all four locations. Resources: The Anxious Generation https://www.christianparenting.org/ https://www.focusonthefamily.com/parenting/

Darin Poli is a strategic leader who is passionate about stewardship and generosity. As an ordained minister, with a wealth of ministry experience, he has been on staff at Emmanuel since 2019 and consults churches locally and nationally. On this episode, Jodi has a conversation with Darin about his ministry background, all-things Kingdom Builders, and stewardship. You will even hear about his favorite travel hack. Darin relays solid insights on growing generosity as well as advice on utilizing dashboards. This conversation is sure to inspire every Shepherd-hearted leader! Resources: https://kingdombuilders.emmanuelcc.org/ https://www.emmanuelfamilyofchurches.com/

Pastors Nate and Jodi have a conversation about equipping potential leaders. In this episode, they share scriptures, personal stories, examples from church, and work through many of the concepts for equipping potential leaders presented in Chapter Five of John Maxwell’s book “Developing the Leaders Around You.” It’s time to take off the training wheels, let go of the bike, and let potential leaders take the lead. Equipping energizes and multiplies the reach of the shepherd-hearted leader! Resources: https://store.maxwellleadership.com/Developing-the-Leaders-Around-You-Paperback_p_909.html

Pastor JonCarlos is an anointed worship leader, recognized both locally and nationally, song writer, credentialed minister, husband, father, and bike enthusiast. He has been the Lead Worship Pastor at Emmanuel since 2013. In this episode, Pastor Nate and Pastor Jon Carlos have a conversation about the dynamic relationship between the Lead Pastor and the Worship Pastor. The conversation starts with JonCarlos sharing his backstory and how he developed as a worship pastor. They talk about being under authority, the difference between being a song leader and a worship pastor, the dynamics of ministering together, overcoming conflict with trust, and the Levitical calling. The conversation wraps up with thoughts about being a house of prayer for all nations. Such an important and uplifting conversation for every shepherd-hearted leader. Resources: https://www.joncarlosandgabriella.com/ http://www.emmanuellive.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@EmmanuelLIVEofficial [email protected]

Pastors Nate and Jodi Ruch talk about the uncharted territory that churches face in current culture. Nate compares ministry to the 1800’s western expansion of civilization. As people moved westward, there were many challenges and shortages. Likewise, ministers are facing challenges: 1) People are influenced by other voices, 2) New generations don’t seek advice from parents/elders, and 3) Pastors are tired and realize people have multiple shepherds. There is hope! In the middle of the chaos, God has placed outposts to reach a broken world. In this episode, you will hear a portion of Nate’s message, “Pastoring in the Wild, Wild West” shared with the ministers of the Indiana District A/G. This is powerful message for every leader. Resources: Coddling of the American Mind The Cancelling of the American Mind Emmanuel Family of Churches Full message Video link: https://www.youtube.com/live/5IqG_lugbWk?si=Cvjk7_36-GPulyDa&t=3604

Pastor Phil Johnson is a credentialed minister with over 14 years of youth ministry experience. He served at Emmanuel for 11 years as Youth Pastor, Next Gen Director, and on the Executive team. Phil is recognized locally and nationally for his youth expertise. In this episode, Jodi and Phil have a conversation about shepherding the next generation. They talk about the challenges facing leaders, questions parents and youth are asking, and generational differences of ministry. The conversation wraps up with advice for parents and encouragement for shepherd hearted leaders. Parent Cue: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/parent-cue/id433066482 ‎https://feed.bible/ https://alpha.org/preview/alpha-youth-series/

In this episode, Pastor Jodi Ruch has a conversation with Rev. Joe Anderson. They discuss Joe's connection to Emmanuel, provide an overview of his ministry assignments, and talk about his journey to faith and how he met his wife. Joe candidly responds to questions about his book “The Tension of Redemption” and dives deeper into his story of overcoming addiction. There are powerful insights about perseverance and total surrender for every Shepherd-hearted leader. You will gain greater insight into Joe’s story and be encouraged to persevere in your own journey.

Pastors Nate and Jodi share the heart behind the recent sermon series, “So You Believe, Now What?” In this episode, they dive deeper into the key concepts covered in the series: following Jesus, principles for life, being synced up with Jesus, freedom, and the supernatural. They tackle tough questions, share personal experiences, and give powerful insights on discipleship. As Shepherd-hearted leaders, we must help others grow spiritually. You don’t want to miss this conversation!

Nate Ruch has a conversation with Wayne Northup, Founding Pastor of Saints Community Church in New Orleans. Wayne shares his journey of becoming a shepherd-hearted pastor. While visiting New Orleans, God gave Wayne an unusual burden for the city. He shares the process of moving to New Orleans and planting Saints Community Church. Wayne experienced years of success as a traveling evangelist. However, he unexpectedly encountered years of intense suffering as a church planter. He unpacks what he learned and how he gained a greater heart for the suffering people in his city. This is an insightful episode of how God will give us what we need to know Him and to accomplish the assignment He has for us.

Pastor Jodi has a conversation with Susie Larson, best-selling author, speaker, and host of the popular radio show Susie Larson Live. Susie is a shepherd-hearted leader. In this podcast, Susie shares what the Lord has put in her heart, how she manages the many aspects of ministry, her heart behind her latest book Waking Up to the Goodness of God, and insights for aspiring leaders. This is a heartfelt conversation with many nuggets of wisdom for every believer. Don’t miss this episode! More resources: https://www.susielarson.com/susielarsonlive https://awtozer.com/

Pastors Nate and Jodi reflect on their 30 years of marriage. In this episode, they share five key takeaways for improving marriage: 1) Remember we are on the same team, 2) look in the mirror, 3) play the long game, 4) get physical, and 5) learn to forgive. They are transparent about the various seasons of their marriage and reflect on having their kids in sports. As Shepherd-hearted leaders, we need to take the time to care for our closest relationships, those in our home.

Pastor Nate has a conversation with New York Times best-selling author John Burke. They talk about life, ministry, his studies of NDEs (near death experiences), and what lead John to write the books “Imagine Heaven” and “Imagine the God of Heaven.”  There are many key take aways for Shepherd-hearted leaders such as the importance of following the Spirit, having an evangelistic heart, and trusting God who takes away the fear of death. Burke encourages us to know that when God puts something in our heart, we can trust him as we step out in faith and do it.

Whether you like it or not, leading change is a necessary part of being a Shepherd-hearted leader. In this episode, Pastors Nate and Jodi have a conversation about being a change agent. From coaching little league football to leading in ministry, we can move chaos into functionality. It takes discernment, pacing, and understanding the people you’re leading. Some people want change and others don’t, you need to understand the resistance and follow the Spirit’s leading. You don’t want to miss this conversation!

Have you ever thought what it looks like to hand off your role to a successor?  Shepherd-hearted leaders prepare others to lead.  In this episode, Pastors Nate and Jodi have a conversation about Nate’s studies on succession. He unpacks scripture, gives insights for picking mentors, and shares how to position yourself to be prepared. Individuals can make the most of their opportunities while preparing for their future. Some people are meant to be the receiver of the baton, while others are meant to start something. Take a broader view of your life and grow as a leader so you are ready for the future God has for you. FutureReadyLead.com

Did you realize unforgiveness can be more subtle than we think? How do shepherd-hearted leaders forgive the small things? Every leader is going to have many opportunities to forgive daily. In this episode, Pastors Nate and Jodi share some of their personal stories on how forgiveness has played out in their lives. Frustration, anger, disappointment, and high expectations are a few of the symptoms of unforgiveness. Failing to forgive hurts our relationship with others and impacts our relationship with the Lord. If we’re going to be shepherd-hearted leaders, we need to get good at forgiving.

All of us need to forgive, but Kevin shares his story of taking forgiveness to the next level. How does a shepherd-hearted leader handle forgiving something significant? Kevin Ramsby shares his story of a frightful event that happened to him while pastoring in Detroit, Michigan. Ramsby found himself the victim of a violent crime being stabbed 37 times. As he prayed, God interrupted him and gave him words to hold onto. Listen to his story, how he learned to forgive, and how the Lord worked in this situation. Gain perspective on how forgiveness will turn wrongs into God’s greater purpose for your life.

Shepherd-hearted leaders take time to reflect on the past as they look to the future. In this episode, Pastors Nate and Jodi reflect on the changes Emmanuel has experienced over the past 10 years. They talk about highlights and challenges from 2023 (including personal thoughts about Israel trip and sabbatical). Then the conversation shifts to the future. Although we can anticipate some challenges in 2024, there is wisdom, scripture, and prayer to help us navigate this year. Lean into this conversation as you embark on this year.

Just a few months before assuming the Senior Pastor role at Emmanuel, Pastor Nate sat down with the founding Pastor G. Mark Denyes for a conversation. They talked about the history of the church, the future, the importance of the Bible and prayer. There was laughter and thoughtful insights for today’s shepherd-hearted leader. You will be inspired by the timeless wisdom of the late G. Mark Denyes who exemplified shepherd-hearted leadership. Lean in as you listen to part of their conversation originally recorded in January 2013 by Tim Denyes.

We all experience times where we hit the wall, where passion for work or ministry seems to have disappeared. How do we find it again? Shepherd-hearted leaders persevere even when the passion for the assignment goes away. Elijah is just one of the many biblical examples of overcoming loss of passion. In this episode, Pastors Nate and Jodi share how mentors, persevering, following the lead of the Spirit, and staying put until God says “go” are keys to breakthrough.

Leading a business or ministry with a spouse sounds great, but there are some definite challenges. Lean into this conversation as we get real about how leading together can impact the family and those working within the organization. Shepherd-hearted leaders are aware of their leadership impact. In this episode, Pastors Nate and Jodi share some examples, both good and challenging, of working for couples as well as some of their own struggles of finding their leadership dance. At some point, each of us will find ourselves navigating spouses in leadership.

Why do some people quit? In this episode, Pastors Nate and Jodi explore the need to play the long game. They talk about pressures and opportunities that often derail leaders. When spiritual leaders drift relationally, from God and others, they put their leadership at risk. Pastors Nate and Jodi share some personal challenges they faced while leading and helpful insights they learned along the way. Everyone can benefit from the time-tested insights shared in this episode. Lean in and strengthen your resolve to fulfill God’s assignment!