The Glass House with Ben and Lynley Mandrell

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. 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
  3. 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
4.9
out of 5
154 Ratings

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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