Group Answers Podcast with Brian Daniel

Lifeway Podcasts
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The Group Answers Podcast is a weekly show designed to resource, train, and encourage small group leaders. Each episode considers current trends and resources as well as timeless truths and methods of discipleship. It is hosted by Brian Daniel.

  1. AUG 20

    317. Mastering Small Group Leadership: Strategies for Building Community, Guiding Discussion, and Multiplying Disciples with Mary Wiley and Joel Polk

    Every small group leader knows the tension between leading with confidence and leading with humility. Great leadership isn’t just about guiding discussions or sharing biblical truths, it’s about creating a space where people feel known, valued, and challenged to grow. In this episode, we explore the heart of group leadership, from the natural tendencies leaders bring to the table to the skills that help a group thrive. Our conversation unpacks the art of engaging discussions, blending rich theological truth with real-life application, and fostering a sense of genuine community. We also discuss the critical role of self-awareness—how leaders can “self-police” to keep the group’s focus on Christ rather than on themselves. You’ll gain practical strategies for vision casting that inspire multiplication, navigate group dynamics with wisdom, and ensure every voice has a place at the table. Whether you’ve been leading for years or are just stepping into the role, this episode will equip you to lead with both purpose and wisdom. SHOW LINKS: Everyday Theology CLICK HERE to read the report from Lifeway Research about the state of groups.

    39 min

  2. AUG 15

    316. Deep Discipleship: How to Build a Bible-Centered Strategy for Small Groups and Church Leaders with JT English

    What does it really take to grow people into mature disciples of Jesus? Too often, churches unintentionally settle for surface-level engagement, leaving believers under-equipped for the mission God has called them to. In this episode, Pastor JT English challenges that norm by unpacking the principles of deep discipleship—a vision for shaping believers through intentional structure, biblical focus, and meaningful community. JT shares practical wisdom on how to organize discipleship strategies that are both anchored in God’s Word and adaptable to the life of your church. From balancing structured programs with organic relationships to confronting the apathy that can stall spiritual growth, he offers a compelling case for raising the bar of expectation for every church member. This conversation will inspire you to lead with a long-term vision, build environments where faith truly flourishes, and equip your people to live on mission. Whether you’re a small group leader, discipleship pastor, or lay leader passionate about spiritual formation, this episode will give you the tools and motivation to move beyond maintenance ministry and step into intentional, transformative disciple-making. SHOW LINKS:  Deep Discipleship Book  Deep Discipleship Group Starter Kit Deep Discipleship Journal CLICK HERE to read the report from Lifeway Research about the state of groups.

    35 min

  3. AUG 6

    315. Rethinking Discipleship with Andrea Lennon

    Welcome back to another great episode of Group Answers Podcast with Brian Daniel. In this episode, Brian sits down with Andrea Lennon, director of Lifeway Women, to unpack what nearly a year of leading a national discipleship movement has taught her - about people, purpose, and leadership. Reflecting on the challenges of leading remotely, Andrea shares how intentional connection -through screens and in person - can still create meaningful spiritual community. The conversation explores the strategic shift from event-driven ministry to using events as springboards into deeper Bible study and service. Andrea candidly speaks to the need for vulnerability in leadership, the power of relationships over performance, and the importance of engaging the next generation - especially Gen Z - with authenticity and purpose. Whether you’re discipling men, leading a group, or building ministry strategy, this episode offers timely wisdom on fostering discipleship environments where people feel seen, valued, and called into something deeper. CLICK HERE to read the report from Lifeway Research about the state of groups.

    31 min

  4. JUL 30

    314. From Conversion to Commission with Dr. Scott Hildreth

    What does it take to live a life fully surrendered to the mission of God? In a culture that often prioritizes comfort, control, and convenience, many believers wrestle with the tension between knowing the gospel and sharing it boldly. In this compelling episode, host Brian Daniel sits down with Dr. Scott Hildreth to explore that very tension—inviting listeners into a conversation that is both personal and profoundly missional. Scott shares the story of his unlikely path to faith, beginning with a series of theological conversations with Mormon missionaries that forced him to dig deeper into what it truly means to be right with God. That spiritual searching eventually led him into a life of ministry, local and global church planting, and a calling to equip others in evangelism and missions. Together, Brian and Scott unpack themes from Scott’s book, The Short Guide to Evangelism and Missions, offering practical encouragement for everyday Christians who feel the nudge to do more than just attend church—they want to participate in God’s mission. From the role of prayer to the dangers of passivity, the episode challenges leaders to evaluate how their groups, families, and churches are mobilizing around the Great Commission. Listeners will walk away with a renewed urgency and biblical clarity, inspired by stories of faithful obedience and historic figures like William Carey, and reminded that disciple-making starts with a willingness to go, pray, lead, and live sent. Show Links:  The Short Guide to Evangelism and Missions, Sharing Jesus Without Freaking Out CLICK HERE to read the report from Lifeway Research about the state of groups.

    32 min

  5. JUL 23

    313. Discipleship, Culture, and the Church in the Digital Age with Collin Hansen

    In an age of constant digital noise and fleeting attention spans, what role does deep thinking and cultural engagement play in discipleship? In this episode of Group Answers, host Brian Daniel and guest Colin Hansen invite listeners into a rich conversation exploring the intersection of literature, culture, and faith. Colin draws from his extensive study of Russian literature to show how stories shape worldviews and how classic literature can serve as a bridge to deeper cultural apologetics. Together, they reflect on how smartphones, social media, and modern media consumption affect the way people connect, think, and grow within the church. The episode tackles the tension between long-form spiritual formation and our culture’s demand for instant answers. Brian and Collin highlight the enduring relevance of Scripture and traditional church rhythms in forming resilient disciples and fostering authentic community. Whether you're a small group leader, pastor, or someone seeking to better understand today’s cultural currents, this conversation will challenge and equip you to lead with clarity, depth, and hope. CLICK HERE to read the report from Lifeway Research about the state of groups.

    39 min

  6. JUL 16

    312. Emotionally Healthy Discipleship in a Hurried World with Drew Hyun

    In the fast-paced world of ministry - especially in places like New York City - it can be easy to drift into doing rather than being, managing rather than ministering. As small group leaders and disciple-makers, we’re reminded that deep, lasting transformation often begins not with strategy, but with slowing down, embracing vulnerability, and learning to lead from a place of wholeness. In this thought-provoking episode host Brian Daniel welcomes Drew Hyun, author of Beautiful, Disappointing, Hopeful, to discuss the unique challenges and opportunities of ministry in New York City. Drew shares his personal journey from California to the East Coast, unpacking the spiritual dynamics of urban life - diversity, density, and the deep hunger for meaning. The conversation explores the need for prayerful dependence, the role of love in building community, and the powerful framework of Emotionally Healthy Discipleship. Drew dives into the emotional complexities leaders often overlook, urging a "slow-down spirituality" that helps us address the deeper layers of the human condition. He also reflects on suffering, the problem of evil, and how the Christian story offers enduring hope in the face of life’s hardest questions. If you’re looking to grow as a leader who not only disciples others but is also being discipled by grace, this episode will encourage you to embrace the beauty, disappointment, and hope found in following Jesus - right in the middle of real life. If this episode encouraged or challenged you, we’d love for you to rate and review the podcast, and don’t forget to share it with a fellow leader walking the path of intentional, emotionally healthy discipleship. SHOW LINKS:  Beautfiul, Disappointing, Hopeful  CLICK HERE to read the report from Lifeway Research about the state of groups.

    39 min

  7. JUL 2

    311. Empowering Discipleship for a Broken World with Josh Spink

    Discipleship is at the heart of the Christian mission, yet the brokenness of our world - and often our own hearts - can make the call feel daunting. We need practical tools and a clear vision to help others grow and multiply in their faith. In this episode, host Brian Daniel sits down with Josh Spinks, a seasoned ministry leader with deep experience in discipleship and church planting. Josh opens up about the realities of human brokenness and the evolving nature of discipleship practices that have moved toward greater empowerment and accessibility. Whether you’re leading a small group or discipling one-on-one, this episode offers encouragement and actionable wisdom for making disciples who make disciples - right where you are. If this episode spoke to you, please take a moment to rate, review, and share it with a fellow leader committed to growing God’s kingdom through intentional discipleship. SHOW LINKS:  Made to Multiply  I Am Second  Discipleship.org  CLICK HERE to read the report from Lifeway Research about the state of groups.

    34 min

  8. JUN 25

    310. Revitalizing the Church for a New Generation with Sarah Jackson

    In a time when many churches are facing decline, especially among younger generations, discipleship leaders are being called to think differently, lead intentionally, and rely fully on the power of the Holy Spirit. Church revitalization isn’t about returning to old models—it’s about making space for God to move in new and powerful ways through transformed lives and authentic community. In today's episode, host Brian Daniel welcomes Sarah Jackson to discuss her work with the Church Revitalization Trust (CRT) and their mission to renew and revitalize churches across the UK and beyond. Sarah shares honest insights into the challenges churches face today - particularly in engaging Gen Z—and offers a hopeful vision of what’s possible when churches create transformational environments that are both Spirit-led and deeply rooted in relational discipleship. The conversation explores the impact of the Alpha course in helping people explore faith in a welcoming and accessible way, as well as the critical need for churches to engage their communities, foster discipleship, and equip leaders to shepherd spiritual renewal. Sarah also highlights the exciting movement among young people encountering Jesus, and what church leaders can do to nurture these moments into lasting transformation. If you’re a small group leader or pastor longing to see your church come alive again, this episode will reignite your hope and offer practical steps toward Spirit-empowered revitalization. If this episode encouraged you, please take a moment to rate, review, and share it with someone else passionate about church renewal and disciple-making. SHOW LINKS:  Revitalise Trust CLICK HERE to read the report from Lifeway Research about the state of groups.

    39 min
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The Group Answers Podcast is a weekly show designed to resource, train, and encourage small group leaders. Each episode considers current trends and resources as well as timeless truths and methods of discipleship. It is hosted by Brian Daniel.

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