The Lead Ministry Podcast

Josh Denhart
  • 4.9 (46)
  • CHRISTIANITY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
The Lead Ministry Podcast

Lead Ministry is here for you, the dedicated people in ministry leadership. Our fast-paced, inspirational podcast offers practical steps in each episode to help you thrive. Our focus: *GET SKILLS - Implement systems to avoid burnout. *GET INSPIRED - Embrace leadership as a path to disciple-making. *GET MOVING - Apply episode ideas to enhance your ministry. Join us on a journey to navigate the challenges of ministry, from volunteer management to team building, and lead with purpose and passion in your service.

  1. 267. How Unhealthy Ministry Norms Fuel Burnout (Burnout Series Part 2)

    1 DAY AGO

    267. How Unhealthy Ministry Norms Fuel Burnout (Burnout Series Part 2)

    Episode 267: How Unhealthy Ministry Norms Fuel Burnout (Burnout Series Part 2) In this episode of the Lead Ministry Podcast, Josh Den Hart and Bill Van Kirk continue the Burnout Series by exploring how unhealthy ministry norms contribute to burnout. They reveal the hidden cultural expectations that perpetuate burnout and share practical strategies to counteract them. If you’re in ministry and feeling overwhelmed, this episode uncovers the silent pressures that often go unspoken. From unrealistic expectations to the misappropriation of stewardship, Josh and Bill break down how these norms create the perfect storm for burnout – and how to push back. Key Topics Covered The Silent Killer of Ministry – Why burnout is so insidious and how it quietly infiltrates church culture. Unrelenting Expectations – How unrealistic demands and constant pressure fuel burnout. Misappropriation of Stewardship – When working hard becomes self-sacrifice at the expense of health and family. Breaking the Cycle – Practical strategies to reset culture and avoid burnout traps. Biblical Truths for Balance – How good theology can help you release unhealthy expectations.Key Quote "People will applaud you for sacrificing your health, your family, your sanity at the altar of getting ministry done." Scripture References Matthew 11:28-30 – "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest… For my yoke is comfortable, and my burden is light." John 6:44 – "No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them."Takeaway Burnout thrives in the shadows of unspoken expectations. By identifying unhealthy ministry norms and applying biblical truths, you can lead with balance and resilience. Remember, your calling is vital, but it doesn’t rest solely on your shoulders. Call to Action We hope this episode challenges and inspires you to rethink cultural norms in ministry. Share this episode with your team and start a conversation about creating a healthier ministry culture. Don’t miss Part 3 of this powerful series!

    33 min
  2. 266. Burnout Series (Part 1) – The Silent Killer You Didn’t See Coming

    FEB 24

    266. Burnout Series (Part 1) – The Silent Killer You Didn’t See Coming

    Episode Description Episode 266: Burnout Series (Part 1) – The Silent Killer You Didn’t See Coming Welcome to the first episode of our new series on Ministry Burnout, where we dive deep into one of the most dangerous challenges leaders face today. Burnout is the silent killer lurking in the shadows, slowly undermining effectiveness and passion for ministry. In this kickoff episode, Josh and Bill reveal why burnout is so dangerous, how unnoticed stress and gradual fatigue can creep in, and why ministry leaders are particularly vulnerable. This episode lays the foundation for a powerful series that will equip you to recognize the warning signs and protect your calling. This is just the beginning.Stay tuned as we continue this journey, exploring practical strategies to recover from burnout and prevent it from taking root. Future episodes will cover critical relationships, the six R’s of recovery, outside counseling, and more. Key Topics Covered: The Silent Killer: Why burnout is the death of ministry effectiveness. Hidden Symptoms: Recognizing physical exhaustion, emotional fatigue, and short tempers as signs of burnout. Why Ministry is Unique: Understanding why ministry leaders are at high risk of burnout. Rebound Ability: How your capacity to bounce back reflects your inner health. Looking Ahead: Upcoming episodes will dive into strategic inputs, critical relationships, and practical recovery plans.Key Quote"Burnout doesn’t happen overnight—it’s the silent killer lurking in the shadows. But recognizing the signs early can save your passion and your calling." TakeawayBurnout is a silent killer, but it doesn’t have to take you out. This series is designed to equip you with the tools and insights to recognize burnout early, build resilience, and protect your passion for ministry. Call to ActionIf you’re feeling overwhelmed or exhausted, this episode is for you. Don’t wait until burnout becomes a crisis. Share this series with your ministry team and start the conversation about preventing burnout together.

    36 min

  3. FEB 17

    265. Stop Growing, Start Failing: Why Learning Matters (Part 4)

    Episode DescriptionIn this episode of the Lead Ministry Podcast, Josh and Bill bring their powerful four-part series on learning culture to a close. They unpack why creating a learners culture is essential for long-term ministry success and how leaders can avoid the fatal mistake of holding too tightly to people instead of developing them for Kingdom impact.If you’ve ever struggled with delegation, leadership development, or knowing when to let go, this episode is a must-listen. Josh shares personal stories of training volunteers, the reality of holding leaders loosely, and how automation actually helps you love people better.Key Topics Covered✅ Why You Can’t Automate People—But You Can Train Them✅ The Long-Term Impact of a Discipleship-Focused Ministry✅ How to Build a Leadership Pipeline That Outlives You✅ The Hard Truth: Great Leaders Won’t Stay Forever (And That’s Okay!)✅ Why Ministries That Wait for Staff Before Building Will Always StruggleKey Quote"Winning at 100% is not me doing it. Winning at 100% is getting someone else to do it at 80%—and then letting them grow."TakeawayThe best leaders aren’t the ones who do it all themselves—they’re the ones who create a legacy of leadership. If you’re not actively raising up and releasing new leaders, your ministry won’t last. Build a culture of learning, and trust that God will use those you invest in beyond what you can see.Call to ActionWe hope this episode challenges and inspires you! Share this episode with your ministry team and start the conversation: How are we developing leaders for long-term impact?Stay Connected for More Resources🌐 Visit our website: http://leadministry.com👍 Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LeadVolunteers📸 Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leadvolunteers

    32 min

  4. FEB 10

    264. Stop Growing, Start Failing: Why Learning Matters (Part 3)

    Episode Description: In this episode of the Lead Ministry Podcast, Josh and Bill dive deep into why a culture of learning is essential for long-term ministry success. They share an incredible real-life story of a volunteer who went from serving once a month to leading a nationally recognized special needs ministry—simply because someone saw potential in her. If you’ve ever questioned whether your leadership investment truly matters, this episode will challenge you to rethink how you develop the people around you. Key Topics Covered Why failing to grow means failing to lead. How to identify future Hall of Fame leaders in your ministry. The hidden power of recognizing "micro-faithfulness" in volunteers. How small investments in people can lead to massive kingdom impact. Why treating volunteers as high-capacity leaders changes everything. Key Quote "What if God told you one of your team members would be in the Hall of Fame of ministry leaders? Would you lead them differently?" Scripture References 2 Timothy 2:2 – “And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.” Luke 16:10 – “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much.” Takeaway The next great ministry leader might already be in your church. Your job is to see them before they see themselves. Invest, equip, and expect greatness. Call to Action If this episode challenged you, share it with someone who’s shaping future leaders. And don’t forget to subscribe for more leadership insights. Stay Connected for More Resources Visit our website: http://leadministry.com Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LeadVolunteers Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leadvolunteers

    32 min

  5. FEB 3

    263. Stop Growing, Start Failing: Why Learning Matters (Part 2)

    Episode Description In this episode of the Lead Ministry Podcast, Josh and Bill continue their deep dive into the power of a learning culture in ministry. Building on Part 1, they explore how investing in learning shapes not just your leadership, but the future of those you lead. They share real stories of former team members who went on to lead thriving ministries and unpack the long-term impact of intentional training. If you’ve ever questioned whether your leadership investment truly matters, this episode will challenge you to think generationally and lead with the future in mind. Key Topics Covered Why Training Matters More Than You Think – How today’s lessons can shape tomorrow’s ministry leaders. Identifying Future Leaders – Practical ways to spot potential in the people you lead. The Ripple Effect of Learning – Why your influence extends far beyond what you can see. Faithfulness in Leadership – Trusting that God is using your efforts, even when you don’t see immediate results. Leading by Example – How your personal growth sets the standard for your team. Key Quote "You don’t know who you’re training today that could change the world tomorrow. Lead like it matters—because it does." Scripture References 2 Timothy 2:2 – “And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.” Proverbs 27:17 – “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Takeaway Your commitment to learning isn’t just about your own growth—it’s about multiplying impact. By pouring into your team today, you’re shaping the future of ministry in ways you may never fully see. Stay faithful, keep investing, and trust that God is at work. Call to Action We hope this episode challenges and inspires you to take your leadership investment seriously. Share this episode with your ministry team and make learning a priority in your leadership. Don’t miss Part 3 of this powerful series! Stay Connected for More Resources Visit our website: http://leadministry.com Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LeadVolunteers Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leadvolunteers

    34 min

  6. JAN 27

    262. Stop Growing, Start Failing: Why Learning Matters (Part 1)

    Episode Description In this episode of the Lead Ministry Podcast, Josh and Bill dive into the critical importance of fostering a culture of learning in ministry. Drawing from personal experiences and practical insights, they unpack how a commitment to lifelong learning transforms not only individual leaders but entire ministry teams. This is the first part of a four-episode series that explores the foundations, challenges, and rewards of building a learning culture. If you’ve ever felt stuck in the grind of managing chaos or wondered how to inspire growth in your team, this episode will challenge and equip you to embrace learning as a core value in your ministry. The Power of a Learning Culture – Why growth-minded leadership is essential for ministry success. Efficiency vs. Ministry – How systems free you to focus on people, not just processes. Quadrant 2 Thinking – Investing in what’s important but not urgent to avoid burnout. Equipping Teams for the Future – Practical ways to prepare your team for ministry challenges and opportunities. Discipleship Through Learning – How creating a learning culture aligns with the Great Commission. "Efficiency is good, but it’s just the foundation. It frees us to do what we’re really called to do—love and lead people." Proverbs 1:5 – “Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance.” 2 Timothy 2:2 – “And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.” Creating a culture of learning isn’t optional—it’s essential. When leaders model a commitment to growth, it becomes contagious, transforming teams and ministries into thriving communities equipped to serve and disciple effectively. We hope this episode inspires you to embrace learning as a core value in your ministry. Share it with your team, start a conversation, and take steps to cultivate a culture of growth. Don’t miss the next episode in this four-part series! Visit our website: http://leadministry.com Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LeadVolunteers Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leadvolunteers

    34 min

  7. JAN 20

    261. Are Pastor's Kids Set Up to Fail?

    Episode Summary: In this episode, Josh and Bill dive into the overlooked challenges of raising pastor's kids (PKs). Are ministry roles causing unnecessary strain on your family? They discuss how intentional parenting strategies can help ministry leaders avoid bitterness and resentment in their children. Learn practical steps to balance ministry demands while nurturing a healthy family life. Key Topics Covered: Ministry vs. Family Tensions: How to prevent ministry life from feeling like a burden to your kids. The Power of Giving Kids a Voice: Encouraging respectful challenges and autonomy. Creating Positive Ministry Experiences: How to make ministry involvement a privilege, not a pressure. Healthy Family Boundaries: Protecting your family’s emotional and spiritual health. The Reality of Sacrifice: Teaching your kids about the costs and blessings of ministry life. Key Quote: "Your kids don’t have to resent ministry—empower them to thrive while you serve." Takeaway: Being a ministry leader doesn't mean sacrificing your kids' emotional health. When children feel valued, heard, and involved in positive ways, they can thrive in ministry life rather than resenting it. Scripture References: Proverbs 22:6 – "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." Colossians 3:17 – "Whatever you do, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus." Call to Action: If this episode encouraged you, share it with your ministry team! ✅ Remember: Healthy families create stronger ministries. Stay Connected for More Resources: Visit our website: leadvolunteers.com Follow us on Facebook: Lead Volunteers Find us on Instagram: @leadvolunteers

    30 min

  8. JAN 13

    260. Is Simplifying Volunteer Roles Hurting Your Ministry?

    Episode Summary: In this episode, Josh and Bill unpack the controversial question: Is simplifying volunteer roles hurting your ministry? They explore the balance between clear, step-by-step instructions and stifling creativity. Discover how defining roles with clarity can reduce anxiety, prevent burnout, and empower both high-capacity leaders and task-focused volunteers. Key Topics Covered: The Myth of Dumbing Down Roles: Why clarity isn't the same as oversimplification. Avoiding Volunteer Burnout and Boredom: How boredom can be just as damaging as burnout. Tier 1 vs. Tier 2 Volunteers: Identifying task-driven "soldiers" vs. creative "leaders." The Power of Clear Instructions: Using visuals, SOPs, and laminated cards for better volunteer success. Empowering Without Micromanaging: How clarity reduces anxiety and builds confidence. Key Quote: "It's not about dumbing down the role—it's about dialing it in with clarity and care." Takeaway: Clear instructions don't limit creativity—they create freedom and clarity so volunteers can thrive. Ministry leaders can empower volunteers better by eliminating confusion while still allowing room for giftedness to shine. Scripture References: Ecclesiastes 3:1 – “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” Colossians 3:17 – “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” Call to Action: If this episode encouraged you, share it with your ministry team! ✅ Remember: Clear roles create stronger teams. Stay Connected for More Resources: Visit our website: leadministry.com Follow us on Facebook: Lead Volunteers Find us on Instagram: @leadvolunteers

    31 min
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4.9
out of 5
46 Ratings

About

Lead Ministry is here for you, the dedicated people in ministry leadership. Our fast-paced, inspirational podcast offers practical steps in each episode to help you thrive. Our focus: *GET SKILLS - Implement systems to avoid burnout. *GET INSPIRED - Embrace leadership as a path to disciple-making. *GET MOVING - Apply episode ideas to enhance your ministry. Join us on a journey to navigate the challenges of ministry, from volunteer management to team building, and lead with purpose and passion in your service.

Information

  • Creator
    Josh Denhart
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    267
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Josh Denhart
  • Show Website
    The Lead Ministry Podcast

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