The Glass House with Ben and Lynley Mandrell

Lifeway Podcasts
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The Glass House with Ben and Lynley Mandrell

Ministry Leaders and their families live in a “glass house”—an environment where they are left vulnerable to the stress of ministry, the criticism of others, and feel the spotlight on their personal weaknesses. Lifeway's "The Glass House" is a space where ministry leaders will shed light on the challenges they often don't feel permission to talk about. Listeners who work in the trenches of church life will feel seen and gain tools to navigate ministry and life. Those who live outside this "glass house" will better understand what it's like to dwell there. Join Ben and Lynley Mandrell for these shockingly confessional—yet redemptive—conversations.

  1. 17H AGO

    145. Building a Healthy Staff Culture in Ministry

    Send us a text What’s it really like to work on your team - and what kind of culture are you creating as a leader? In this episode, Ben and Lynley Mandrell dive into the heartbeat of every organization: staff culture. Whether you're leading a small team or serving on a large church staff, the environment you create - or tolerate - impacts everything. Ben and Lynley walk through several guiding principles that shape healthy, high-functioning teams. They discuss the importance of direct communication, collaborative spirit, investment in community, clarity in leadership, flexibility in roles, and honoring processes that bring order to chaos. They also get honest about the real consequences of toxic culture and the hard work it takes to change course. This episode will challenge leaders to evaluate the culture they’re shaping and offer hope that change is possible with intention, humility, and vision. If this conversation sparked ideas or encouragement, take a moment to rate, review, and share the podcast with another ministry leader. Let’s keep building healthier teams—for the good of the Church and the glory of God. SHOW LINKS:  Leave Ben & Lynley a voice mail HERE Connect with the Glass House on Instagram HERE Please email us your questions and feedback to president@lifeway.com  or leave us a voice mail HERE Please click THIS LINK to shop for the brand new Together Bible Study from Lifeway and Ben Mandrell.

    25 min

  2. JUL 7

    144. Accountability, Grace, and Growth — Revisiting John Wesley’s Holy Club Questions

    Send us a text Are you inviting the kind of accountability into your life that leads to real spiritual growth - or are you simply going through the motions? In this episode, Ben and Lynley Mandrell explore the timeless wisdom of John Wesley’s Holy Club questions and how they can still shape the spiritual lives of modern ministry leaders. Originally crafted for deep self-reflection and community accountability, these questions spark a conversation about the delicate balance between discipline and grace. Ben and Lynley reflect on the value of asking ourselves tough spiritual questions - not to earn God's favor, but to become more self-aware and intentional in our walk with Christ. They address the potential dangers of drifting into legalism and the importance of tailoring spiritual practices to fit how God uniquely wired each of us. Whether you thrive in structured routines or prefer more fluid rhythms, the episode encourages leaders to pursue accountability in ways that foster authenticity, not guilt. What form of spiritual accountability challenges you to grow while still leaving space for grace? If this conversation encouraged you, take a moment to rate, review, and share the podcast with someone who’s serious about spiritual growth. And stay with us for more conversations that speak into the soul of leadership. SHOW LINKS: Together Bible Study

    20 min

  3. JUN 30

    143. Book Discussion- The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry

    Send us a text In a world obsessed with speed, productivity, and hustle, what is all this hurry costing us? In this episode, we slow down and take a deep breath to explore the spiritual, emotional, and relational toll of our nonstop lives. Drawing inspiration from John Mark Comer's powerful book, The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, we unpack the rhythms of rest, presence, and purpose that Jesus modeled for us—and how adopting them can transform our everyday lives.

    20 min

  4. JUN 16

    141. Leading Yourself Well — 10 & 10 Summer Series with Ben and Lynley Mandrell

    Send us a text Before we can lead others effectively, we have to learn how to lead ourselves. Are you paying attention to the habits, rhythms, and decisions that shape your personal leadership? We’re continuing our 10 & 10 Summer Series, where Ben dives into a leadership topic for 10 minutes and Lynley follows with 10 minutes of thoughtful, honest commentary from her perspective.  In this episode, Ben and Lynley explore the vital topic of self-leadership—the often-overlooked but foundational skill that impacts every area of our lives. They unpack four categories of activity that leaders typically engage in and challenge listeners to evaluate how they spend their time. The conversation encourages leaders to identify both strengths and weaknesses, making space for personal growth and greater alignment with their calling. Together, they reflect on how to balance the demands of ministry with personal passions, and how leaning into your God-given wiring can lead to more joy and effectiveness in your work. Whether you're running on empty or ready for a refresh, this episode is packed with perspective to help you thrive—not just survive—in your leadership. If this conversation challenged or encouraged you, we’d love it if you’d rate, review, and share the podcast with your team or another ministry leader. And don’t miss the next episode in our 10 & 10 series—where leadership gets real, and so do we. SHOW LINKS: Four Thousand Weeks

    21 min

  5. JUN 16

    142. The Ministry of Listening: Building Better Conversations and Stronger Teams

    Send us a text When was the last time you truly listened—not just to respond, but to understand? In this episode of The Glass House, Ben and Lynley Mandrell explore one of the most undervalued yet essential skills in ministry leadership: listening. Whether you're navigating staff dynamics, leading small groups, or caring for your congregation, your ability to listen well can make or break your effectiveness as a leader. Ben and Lynley unpack the challenges of one-sided conversations, the power of emotional intelligence, and why self-awareness is key to becoming a better communicator. They also discuss the often-avoided topic of confrontation, encouraging leaders to embrace it in a constructive, grace-filled way. Finally, they offer practical advice on how to seek honest feedback to grow in communication and relational leadership. This conversation is a must-listen for any ministry leader who wants to build healthier teams, deeper relationships, and a more effective leadership presence through the simple—but powerful—act of listening. If this episode resonated with you, be sure to rate, review, and share the podcast with another ministry leader in your circle. Listening well is a lifelong journey, and we’re in it together. SHOW LINKS:  Why Don't We Listen Better

    25 min

  6. JUN 9

    140. The Power of a Prepared Room: 10 & 10 with Ben & Lynley

    Send us a text In this episode of The Glass House, Ben and Lynley Mandrell dive into the power of preparation—especially when it comes to shaping the environments we lead in. Whether you're welcoming a new staff member, greeting a church guest, or hosting a team event, the atmosphere you create speaks volumes. Ben & Lynley unpack why first impressions matter and how intentional details—big or small—can leave a lasting impact. They discuss the tension between thoughtful experiences and branding strategies, pointing to the deeper calling of hospitality as a reflection of care and mission. Listeners will walk away with practical insights on how to: Cultivate welcoming spaces for both visitors and teamsAlign preparation with purpose, not just performanceMake every interaction feel personal, memorable, and mission-drivenIf you’re leading in ministry, business, or your own home, this conversation will encourage you to think more intentionally about how preparation sets the tone for transformation.

    24 min

  7. APR 21

    139. The Trajectory of The Heart with Ben Mandrell

    Send us a text In a season of constant change, is your heart moving closer to God—or drifting further away? In this special episode, we’re sharing a powerful message from Ben Mandrell, delivered at our annual One Lifeway gathering. With honesty and depth, Ben invites ministry leaders to reflect on something we often overlook: the subtle shifts of the heart. As everything around us changes, so do we—but are we paying attention to the direction of that change? Drawing from the story of Cain and Abel, Ben explores how mistrust in God can quietly take root, leading us down a dangerous path if left unchecked. He asks soul-searching questions like, “Is it truly well with my soul?” and challenges listeners to consider whether their hearts are being shaped more by the pressures of ministry or the presence of God. This message is both a caution and an invitation—to be still, to evaluate, and to redirect if needed. It’s a timely reminder for leaders at every level that our effectiveness in ministry begins with the health of our own souls. If this episode encouraged or challenged you, take a moment to rate, review, and share the podcast with another leader in your life. Your support helps us continue creating meaningful conversations for ministry-minded people just like you. SHOW LINKS:

    34 min

  8. APR 14

    138. Healthy Habits for Ministry Leaders with Tim Wheat

    Send us a text Are you caring for your soul and body with the same intention you give to your ministry? As leaders, we often push through exhaustion and neglect our own well-being for the sake of serving others. But what if taking care of yourself is actually one of the most spiritual things you can do? In this episode, Ben Mandrell sit down with Tim Wheat to talk about the critical importance of health and self-care for pastors and ministry leaders. Tim shares his wisdom on how spiritual, emotional, and physical health are deeply connected—and how neglecting one can impact them all. This episode isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. Whether you’re at the beginning of your wellness journey or just need a reminder that your health matters, you’ll find encouragement and practical tips for leading from a place of strength and sustainability. What small habit can you start this week that would move you toward greater spiritual, emotional, or physical health? Tune in for an honest and empowering conversation that reminds ministry leaders: taking care of yourself is not a distraction from your calling—it’s part of it. SHOW LINKS:  Connect with Tim Wheat -Leave Ben & Lynley a voice mail HERE -Connect with the Glass House on Instagram HERE -Please email us your questions and feedback to president@lifeway.com  or leave us a voice mail HERE Please click THIS LINK to shop for the brand new Together Bible Study from Lifeway and Ben Mandrell.

    45 min
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About

Ministry Leaders and their families live in a “glass house”—an environment where they are left vulnerable to the stress of ministry, the criticism of others, and feel the spotlight on their personal weaknesses. Lifeway's "The Glass House" is a space where ministry leaders will shed light on the challenges they often don't feel permission to talk about. Listeners who work in the trenches of church life will feel seen and gain tools to navigate ministry and life. Those who live outside this "glass house" will better understand what it's like to dwell there. Join Ben and Lynley Mandrell for these shockingly confessional—yet redemptive—conversations.

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