Politics is often considered a dirty word. It brings to mind lies and manipulation, accusations and scandals. In this episode author and professor Tasha Chapman joins us to talk through that politics is simply the everyday activity of getting things done with other people, understanding their interests. All ministry is political. As for servants of Christ's kingdom, we are called to navigate the politics of ministry with grace, wisdom, and charity.

How do you know if you're in relationship with a narcissist? What might the relationship feel like? In this episode author and therapist, Les Carter joins us to talk about the issue of narcissism and its impact on the church. Les is the author of several books including, When Pleasing You is Killing Me, and the co-hosts a youtube channel called Surviving Narcissism.

In this episode Dan Zink joins us to talk through the importance of counseling in healthy leadership. We cover a wide range of topics including the pressures of serving in the local church, and pursuing those we're in relationship with while having a non-anxious presence. Dan offers great advice on ministry that I think will be a source of encouragement. I hope you enjoy.

What does it take to have fruitful ministry over the long haul? The stresses of pastoring are well known and can be a match for even the best-prepared, most experienced in ministry - multiple tasks, long hours, taxing responsibilities and, yes, some challenging personalities. In today's podcast Bob Burns talks about sustainable ministry and what it looks like to survive and thrive in the church.

In this episode Zack Eswine discusses the Mattering Things of the Christian life and vocational ministry. We talk through a number of issues such as maintaining our humanity while serving in pastoral ministry and how to respond in the face of criticism. I was greatly encouraged by the conversation and I think you will be too.

Scotty Smith in our conversation today articulates the importance of having a "Gospel Posse" for sustainable ministry. We also talk through the importance of counseling in the life of those serving in ministry and turning to Christ in the face of discouragement.