In this episode of 'Learning to Lead Show', host Mark Cundiff interviews Dr. Matt Willmington, the Executive Pastor of Ministries at Thomas Road Baptist Church and Head of the Pastoral Training program at Liberty University. 

Dr. Willmington shares his leadership journey, emphasizing the importance of living 'inside out' to avoid burnout. He discusses his leadership philosophy, particularly in the context of a large church with numerous volunteers, and explains how biblical principles guide his approach. 

Dr. Willmington also delves into recruitment, training, and coaching strategies, offering practical advice and book recommendations for leaders. He concludes with reflections on balancing productivity and fruitfulness, the importance of self-awareness, and the evolving challenges leaders face today. 

This episode is packed with actionable insights and tips for both seasoned and aspiring leaders.

00:00 Understanding the Inside-Out Mission

00:27 Introduction to Dr. Matt Wilmington

02:04 Matt's Leadership Journey

03:24 Current Roles and Responsibilities

05:23 Leading Volunteers vs. Paid Staff

09:42 Blending Corporate and Church Leadership

12:06 Recruitment and Team Building

25:17 Onboarding and Training New Leaders

28:55 The Importance of Staff Mentorship

29:45 Onboarding and Training New Employees

31:33 Coaching Future Church Leaders

31:59 Biblical Foundations for Leadership

34:48 Practical Lessons from the New Testament

37:16 Self-Awareness and Early Leadership Lessons

43:29 Balancing Productivity and Fruitfulness

49:33 Continual Learning and Personal Growth

51:22 Current Leadership Challenges

55:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Dr. Matt Willmington's Contact Information:

• LinkedIn
• Email: [email protected] 
• Thomas Road Baptist Church
• Liberty University

📚 Books Mentioned

• The Advantage — Patrick Lencioni
• The Purpose Driven Life — Rick Warren
• The Purpose Driven Church — Rick Warren
• Leading from the Second Chair — Mike Bonem
• The First 90 Days — (referenced as an onboarding framework)
•  Atomic Habits — habit stacking / building rhythms

Free Learning To Lead Resources

• Free Book: The Trust Gap
• The Learning To Lead Newsletter
• LeaderNotes

🔎 About LeaderNotes

LeaderNotes is a quick-hit companion to each episode of The Learning to Lead Show. In just 5–10 minutes, Mark Cundiff recaps the top leadership insights, frameworks, and action steps from each interview, designed for busy, growth-minded leaders who want to review and apply the episode’s biggest takeaways on the go. It’s like the highlight reel + playbook—all in one.

Contact Mark at: [email protected]