In this episode of the Church Leadership Podcast, Mark and Andy are joined by Dr. Chris Crain, Executive Director of the Birmingham Metro Baptist Association, for a conversation about conflict in the church—especially during high-stress seasons like Christmas (recorded just before Christmas 2025).

Chris explains common times when conflict is more likely to surface, including busy church-calendar seasons (Christmas/Easter), budget and stewardship campaigns, staffing changes, and when the pastor is away. The group discusses how even good seasons of activity can create a “vacuum” that leads to tension. Chris encourages leaders not to take conflict personally and to view non-essential differences as healthy tension rather than threats, noting how failure to do so can alienate people and even lead to a mass exodus.

Chris shares how he prioritized clarifying mission and values at the association, including the mission statement: to encourage, equip, and engage biblically faithful churches in the Great Commission for God’s glory, and five core values: truth, in touch, on mission, on purpose, and for the church.

In this episode of the Church Leadership Podcast, hosts Mark and Andy discuss the importance of slowing down in ministry. They emphasize the need for church leaders to reduce their hurried pace to foster deeper relationships and better spiritual health.

Andy & Mark share personal experiences, discuss the challenge of balancing tasks, and reflect on how Jesus' unhurried life serves as a model.

The episode highlights the benefits of slowing down, from avoiding burnout to enhancing the quality of ministry, and encourages leaders to evaluate and adjust their own pace accordingly.

In this episode of the Church Leadership Podcast, Mark and Andy welcome their good friend Dr. Robert Mullins. Robert, who serves as the Executive Director for the Madison Baptist Association, discusses his journey from local church pastor to leading an association of pastors. The conversation delves into the importance of intentionality, community, and disciple-making within pastoral leadership. Robert shares insights on how his role focuses on creating a supportive environment for pastors, addressing burnout, and fostering church health. The episode is a heartfelt dialogue that aims to encourage and equip church leaders in their ministries.

You can find out more about Passion Tree Ministries at https://passiontree.org

You can also get in touch with Robert by emailing him at [email protected]

In this episode of the Church Leadership Podcast, hosts Mark Gainey and Andy Frazier welcome Jay Gordon, the Small Groups Pastor at Brook Hills. Jay shares invaluable insights on where he has seen God at work, and offers practical advice on fostering meaningful relationships and discipleship within small groups. Listen in as Jay discusses the challenges and shifts in small group dynamics post-COVID, the importance of relational and discussion-based group meetings, and strategies for utilizing digital tools in spiritual practices. Whether you're a seasoned leader or just starting, this episode is packed with essential tips to help you grow as a leader and disciple-maker.

The blog article Jay references can be found here - https://www.brookhills.org/blog/reflect-christ-to-unbelieving-family-members-this-christmas

Below are links to the apps Jay mentions during the podcast.

YouVersion Bible App

Prayer Mate App

Bible Memory App

In this episode of the Church Leadership Podcast, Andy & Mark discuss the unique concept of developing and enlisting volunteer staff members within the church. They explore how to empower volunteers to assume key leadership roles without financial compensation. The discussion includes practical tips for identifying, recruiting, and developing these volunteers, while maintaining a healthy balance and ensuring they feel valued.

In this episode of the Church Leadership Podcast, hosts Mark Gainey and Andy Frazier discuss the importance of finding joy in ministry, regardless of the size or context of your church. They emphasize celebrating small wins and creating a culture of joy, which contributes to deeper learning and spiritual growth.

This episode highlights how recognizing and appreciating small victories can lead to sustained encouragement and momentum within the church. They also reference the book 'The Other Half of Church' to underscore the importance of cultivating joy and healthy relationships.

In this episode of the Church Leadership Podcast, hosts Mark Gainey and Andy Frazier discuss the common temptation church leaders face in finding their identity in their ministry successes and failures. They highlight the dangers of measuring worth and success through worldly metrics like attendance, buildings, and budgets, and urge leaders to root their identity in their relationship with Jesus Christ. The hosts share personal stories and stress the importance of faithfulness, self-care, soul care, and the support of a community. Tune in for practical advice on maintaining a healthy ministry mindset.

On this episode Mark and Andy discuss the importance of relationships in ministry, highlighting the need for intentional and vulnerable…

In this episode, Mark and Andy discuss the importance of soul care in ministry, emphasizing that it’s not just about…