Leadership Lab Podcast

Union Baptist Association
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  • Christianity
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The Leadership Lab podcast equips and encourages pastors, youth leaders, and church volunteers through practical conversations on ministry, leadership, and discipleship. Featuring local church leaders, we address real challenges facing our churches and provide gospel-centered resources to help leaders grow and strengthen their congregations.

  1. 1d ago

    Episode 23 | Lessons from a Life in Student Ministry with Matt Wilkinson (Part 1)

    In this episode of the Union Baptist Association Podcast, Eric Cook sits down with Matt Wilkinson from Hopewell for a conversation reflecting on his years in student ministry and his transition into a new role in communications at his church. Matt shares how he first felt drawn to youth ministry, what he expected the role to be when he started, and what years of experience taught him about the calling and responsibility of discipling students. Together, they discuss the importance of staying rooted in student ministry, the temptation to view youth ministry as simply a stepping stone, and what actually helps produce lasting faith in teenagers rather than temporary spiritual excitement. Matt also reflects on the dramatic changes in youth culture over the years, particularly the influence of smartphones and social media, while considering what has remained constant in faithfully reaching and discipling students. This episode offers valuable perspective and encouragement for youth pastors, ministry leaders, and anyone investing in the next generation. The Union Baptist Association exists to encourage, equip, and connect churches as we work together to advance the gospel. Learn more about the Union Baptist Association at http://unionbaptist.com/ Follow us for future episodes!

  2. Jul 27

    Episode 22 | Faithful Stewardship and Church Health with Brad Kelley (Part 2)

    In this episode of the Union Baptist Association Podcast, Eric Cook continues his conversation with Brad Kelley, exploring how pastors can use data to strengthen the health and mission of the local church without losing sight of biblical priorities. Together, they discuss the relationship between prayer and data, emphasizing that effective ministry depends on both faithful dependence on God and wise stewardship of the information available to church leaders. Brad shares practical insights on identifying meaningful indicators of church health beyond Sunday attendance, distinguishing genuine kingdom growth from growth driven primarily by church transfers, and responding to the changing needs of the community. The conversation also addresses common concerns pastors have about using analytics in ministry and encourages leaders to view data not as a replacement for faithful shepherding, but as a tool to help care for God's people more effectively. This episode provides practical wisdom for pastors seeking to lead their churches with conviction, discernment, and a heart for the Great Commission. The Union Baptist Association exists to encourage, equip, and connect churches as we work together to advance the gospel. Learn more about the Union Baptist Association at http://unionbaptist.com/ Follow us for future episodes!

  3. Jul 20

    Episode 21 | Faithful Stewardship and Church Health with Brad Kelley (Part 1)

    In this episode of the Union Baptist Association Podcast, Eric Cook sits down with Brad Kelley to discuss how churches can faithfully evaluate their ministry while remaining focused on the mission of making disciples. Together, they explore the role of numbers and data in the life of the church, asking whether they should be viewed as tools for accountability and stewardship rather than measures of success. Brad shares practical insight on using church data as a diagnostic resource to better understand congregational health, evangelism, and the changing communities churches are called to reach. The conversation also examines how demographic trends can help churches engage their neighborhoods more effectively while guarding against the temptation to adopt a business mindset that loses sight of the gospel. This episode offers thoughtful encouragement for pastors and church leaders seeking to lead with both biblical faithfulness and strategic wisdom. The Union Baptist Association exists to encourage, equip, and connect churches as we work together to advance the gospel. Learn more about the Union Baptist Association at http://unionbaptist.com/ Follow us for future episodes!

  4. Jul 13

    Episode 20 | Discipling Students for Lifelong Faith with Michael Hasty (Part 2)

    In this episode of the Union Baptist Association Podcast, Eric Cook and Quinn Medlin continue their conversation with Michael Hasty, exploring some of the most pressing challenges facing student ministry today. Together, they discuss how to respond with both biblical truth and Christlike compassion as students wrestle with questions surrounding gender, sexuality, and cultural pressures. The conversation also focuses on preparing students for a faith that lasts beyond high school, partnering with parents in the discipleship process, and keeping the local church at the center of spiritual growth. Michael shares his vision for the kind of men and women he hopes today's students will become years down the road, offering practical encouragement for youth pastors, church leaders, parents, and anyone invested in discipling the next generation. The Union Baptist Association exists to encourage, equip, and connect churches as we work together to advance the gospel. Learn more about the Union Baptist Association at http://unionbaptist.com/ Follow us for future episodes!

  5. Jul 7

    Episode 19 | Discipling Students for Lifelong Faith with Michael Hasty (Part 1)

    In this episode of the Union Baptist Association Podcast, Eric Cook and Quinn Medlin are joined by Michael Hasty for a conversation about the unique challenges facing student ministry today. Together, they discuss how pastors and church leaders can faithfully shepherd students who are navigating anxiety, depression, and the growing pressures of modern culture. The conversation also explores the influence of technology and artificial intelligence on the next generation, offering practical insight into how churches can disciple students to use these tools with wisdom rather than fear. Michael shares how youth leaders can care for struggling students with biblical compassion while recognizing the importance of partnering with parents and mental health professionals when needed. This episode encourages pastors, youth leaders, and parents to engage the next generation with truth, grace, and a Christ-centered perspective. The Union Baptist Association exists to encourage, equip, and connect churches as we work together to advance the gospel. Learn more about the Union Baptist Association at http://unionbaptist.com/ Follow us for future episodes!

  6. Jun 16

    Episode 18 | Cultivating a Culture of Prayer with Curtis Laney (Part 2)

    In this episode of the Union Baptist Association Podcast, Eric Cook continues his conversation with Curtis Laney on the essential role of prayer in the life of the church and its leaders. Together, they explore the difference between simply praying about ministry responsibilities and praying through them, highlighting the importance of depending on God in every aspect of leadership and decision-making. Curtis also shares practical insights on how churches can cultivate a genuine culture of prayer that extends beyond programs and becomes a defining characteristic of congregational life. The conversation addresses the balance between faithful planning and waiting on God's direction, as well as the role of praying in the Spirit in the context of spiritual awakening and revival. This episode offers biblical encouragement and practical wisdom for pastors, church leaders, and believers who desire to see prayer become a deeper and more central part of their walk with Christ and the life of their church. The Union Baptist Association exists to encourage, equip, and connect churches as we work together to advance the gospel. Learn more about the Union Baptist Association at http://unionbaptist.com/ Follow us for future episodes!

  7. Jun 8

    Episode 17 | The Power of Prayer in Leadership with Curtis Laney (Part 1)

    In this episode of the Union Baptist Association Podcast, Eric Cook sits down with Curtis Laney to discuss the vital role of prayer in the life of a leader. Drawing from his own ministry experience, Curtis shares how prayer shapes the decisions he makes, sustains him through the demands of leadership, and keeps his focus on God's direction rather than his own abilities. Together, they explore the challenges of maintaining a consistent prayer life amid busy schedules and ministry responsibilities. Curtis also reflects on ways he has seen prayer transform circumstances and change his own heart in the midst of difficult situations. The conversation concludes with practical insight on leading others in corporate prayer in a way that is authentic, engaging, and centered on seeking God rather than simply following a routine. This episode offers encouragement and wisdom for pastors, church leaders, and believers who desire to grow deeper in their dependence on God through prayer. The Union Baptist Association exists to encourage, equip, and connect churches as we work together to advance the gospel. Learn more about the Union Baptist Association at http://unionbaptist.com/ Follow us for future episodes!

  8. May 25

    Episode 16 | Revival, Spiritual Awakening, and the Power of Prayer with Eddie Powers Part 2

    In this episode of the Union Baptist Association Podcast, Eric Cook continues his conversation with Eddie Powers on revival and spiritual awakening. Together, they examine patterns seen throughout past awakenings and discuss what the modern church often overlooks or resists when seeking spiritual renewal. Eddie shares insight into how pastors and church leaders can faithfully prepare for revival without attempting to manufacture emotional experiences or control the work of the Holy Spirit. The conversation also explores how leaders can discern genuine movements of God from emotionalism or crowd dynamics, and what it practically looks like for churches to posture themselves in prayer, repentance, and obedience. This episode challenges listeners to consider how a true awakening could reshape priorities, ministry structures, and the spiritual life of the church today. The Union Baptist Association exists to encourage, equip, and connect churches as we work together to advance the gospel. Learn more about the Union Baptist Association at http://unionbaptist.com/ Follow us for future episodes!

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About

The Leadership Lab podcast equips and encourages pastors, youth leaders, and church volunteers through practical conversations on ministry, leadership, and discipleship. Featuring local church leaders, we address real challenges facing our churches and provide gospel-centered resources to help leaders grow and strengthen their congregations.

Information

  • Creator
    Union Baptist Association
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    24
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Union Baptist Association
  • Show Website
    Leadership Lab Podcast