In this episode of the GrowLeader Podcast, Pastor Chris shares a powerful message from this year’s ARC Conference on the key to security in leadership.

Drawing from 41 years of ministry experience, he unpacks five areas every leader must "die to" and offers practical solutions rooted in his personal journey. Pastor Chris closes with a challenge to "re-up" your commitment—not to just survive, but to surrender. 

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Episode Resources:

- ARC Website: https://www.arcchurches.com

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All Things GrowLeader:

- Learn More and Register for GrowLeader Conference 2025: https://www.growleader.com/conference

- Join Monthly Mentoring with Pastor Chris: https://www.growleader.com/monthlymentoring

- Access FREE church resources: https://www.churchofthehighlands.com/resources

- Develop a Kingdom Builders or Legacy Team: https://www.growleader.com/kbvirtualintensive

- Watch more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyCNQpi3YxaOeQAIdSpbeVw

. . . .

Follow along on Socials:

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growleader/

- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/growleader

What do you do when life feels like it’s spiraling—and how can that moment become the start of something more significant?

In this episode of the GrowLeader Podcast, Pastor Levi Lusko joins Pastors Chris Hodges and Matt Minor for an honest conversation about leadership, creativity, and the hidden opportunities inside seasons of struggle. They unpack what it looks like to lead through midlife, steward influence well, and embrace the shift from stage to sage.

Levi shares the story behind his new book Blessed Are the Spiraling, including how a panic attack, personal loss, and burnout became a catalyst for deeper clarity and calling. He also talks about writing rhythms, sermon preparation, and the power of intentional systems for capturing and storing content.

Whether you’re recalibrating your pace, mentoring the next generation, or looking for fresh ways to connect with your spouse and team, this episode will help you rediscover purpose in the middle of pressure—and find joy in the journey ahead.

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Episode Resources:

- Learn More | Levi Lusko: https://levilusko.com/

- Levi’s HC Chapel Message: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DIba_dMVyRA

- Blessed Are The Spiraling Book: https://www.blessedarethespiraling.com/

- The Marriage Devotional: https://levilusko.com/the-marriage-devotional

. . . .

All things GrowLeader:

- GrowLeader One Days: https://www.growleader.com/onedays

- Join Monthly Mentoring with Pastor Chris: https://www.growleader.com/monthlymentoring

- Access FREE church resources: https://www.churchofthehighlands.com/resources

- GrowLeader Roundtables: https://www.growleader.com/roundtables

- Develop a Kingdom Builders or Legacy Team: https://www.growleader.com/kbvirtualintensive

- Watch more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@GrowLeaderTeam

. . . .

Follow along on Socials:

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growleader

- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/growleader

. . . .

Thank you to our partners!

- Wesleyan Investment Foundation: https://www.wifonline.com/growleader

- OneHope: https://onehope.net/growleader

- StudioC: https://www.thestudioc.org/growleader

What trends are shaping the future of the Church—and how should leaders respond with wisdom and courage?

In this episode of the GrowLeader Podcast, we sit down with Carey Nieuwhof, leadership expert and longtime voice in the church world, to explore some of the biggest challenges and opportunities facing pastors today. From a fresh wave of Gen Z revival to the sharp decline in evangelism, Carey shares real-time insights backed by research and frontline conversations with church leaders around the world.

They discuss what it means to lead in a post-Christian culture, how to build momentum with new believers, and why confession might be the unexpected key to engaging the next generation. Carey also reflects on lessons from his own leadership transition and offers practical advice for leaders navigating change.

Whether you’re preparing for Easter, building your team, or rethinking how to reach people in 2025, this episode will help you lead with clarity, humility, and a renewed sense of purpose.

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Episode Resources:

- 5 Disruptive Church Trends That Will Rule 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4PKOHKEqhf4

- Learn more from Carey Nieuwhof: https://careynieuwhof.com/

- Carey's Leadership Podcast: https://careynieuwhof.com/mypodcast/

. . . .

All things GrowLeader:

- GrowLeader One Days: https://www.growleader.com/onedays

- Join Monthly Mentoring with Pastor Chris: https://www.growleader.com/monthlymentoring

- Access FREE church resources: https://www.churchofthehighlands.com/resources

- GrowLeader Roundtables: https://www.growleader.com/roundtables

- Develop a Kingdom Builders or Legacy Team: https://www.growleader.com/kbvirtualintensive

- Watch more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@GrowLeaderTeam

. . . .

Follow along on Socials:

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growleader

- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/growleader

. . . .

Thank you to our partners!

- Wesleyan Investment Foundation: https://www.wifonline.com/growleader

- OneHope: https://onehope.net/growleader

- StudioC: https://www.thestudioc.org/growleader

What does it look like to lead with clarity, humility, and confidence through a leadership transition?

In this episode of the GrowLeader Podcast, Pastors Chris Hodges and Matt Minor sit down with Pastor Mark Pettus to talk about the heart behind the recent leadership transition at Church of the Highlands. Pastor Mark shares how calling, confirmation, and clarity guided his journey—alongside a deep honor for what came before.

This conversation is packed with practical insights for leaders at every level—whether you’re in a season of transition, preparing for one, or helping others grow into new roles. They unpack how to steward vision, build momentum for what’s next, and navigate leadership change as a team.

Whether you’re leading a church, a business, or a ministry, this episode will help you discern your next step, carry legacy with purpose, and lead with wisdom through seasons of change.

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Episode Resources:

- Anniversary Sunday Message: https://www.churchofthehighlands.com/media/02-02-2025

. . . .

All things GrowLeader:

- NEW GrowLeader One Days: https://www.growleader.com/onedays

- Join Monthly Mentoring with Pastor Chris: https://www.growleader.com/monthlymentoring

- Access FREE church resources: https://www.churchofthehighlands.com/resources

- GrowLeader Roundtables: https://www.growleader.com/roundtables

- Develop a Kingdom Builders or Legacy Team: https://www.growleader.com/kbvirtualintensive

- Watch more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@GrowLeaderTeam

. . . .

Follow along on Socials:

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growleader

- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/growleader

. . . .

Thank you to our partners!

- Wesleyan Investment Foundation: https://www.wifonline.com/growleader

- OneHope: https://onehope.net/growleader

- StudioC: https://www.thestudioc.org/growleader

What does a healthy church transition look like?

In this episode, Pastor Chris shares the journey of transitioning from Lead Pastor to Founding Pastor at Church of the Highlands. For over two years, Pastors Chris and Mark Pettus, carefully prepared for this moment—ensuring healthy leadership succession, organizational stability, and a clear vision for the future.

This conversation is packed with wisdom, practical takeaways, and behind-the-scenes insights for leaders preparing for their own transitions.

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Episode Resources:

- Anniversary Sunday Message: https://www.churchofthehighlands.com/media/02-02-2025

. . . .

All things GrowLeader:

- GrowLeader Regional | Miami, FL: https://www.growleader.com/regionals

- NEW GrowLeader One Days: https://www.growleader.com/onedays

- Join Monthly Mentoring with Pastor Chris: https://www.growleader.com/monthlymentoring

- Access FREE church resources: https://www.churchofthehighlands.com/resources

- GrowLeader Roundtables: https://www.growleader.com/roundtables

- Develop a Kingdom Builders or Legacy Team: https://www.growleader.com/kbvirtualintensive

- Watch more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@GrowLeaderTeam

. . . .

Follow along on Socials:

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growleader

- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/growleader

. . . .

Thank you to our partners!

- Wesleyan Investment Foundation: https://www.wifonline.com/growleader

- OneHope: https://onehope.net/growleader

- StudioC: https://www.thestudioc.org/growleader

How can you turn your ideas into a book?

In this episode of the GrowLeader Podcast, Pastors Chris Hodges and Matt Minor sit down with Dudley Delffs, a bestselling author, editor, and publishing expert, to discuss the process of writing, publishing, and using books as tools for leadership and ministry. Many leaders feel called to write but don’t know where to start—this conversation breaks down the step-by-step journey from idea to published book.

From structuring your message and finding your writing rhythm to deciding between traditional publishing and self-publishing, we cover the key elements every aspiring author needs to know. We also explore how to refine your ideas, work with editors, and use books to disciple and equip others beyond your immediate reach.

Whether you’re a pastor, business leader, or creative, this episode is packed with practical insights and real-world advice to help you write with clarity and purpose. 

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Episode Resources:

- Learn More | Dudley Delffs: https://www.dudleydelffs.com/

- PC's Books: https://www.growleader.com/resources

- NEW GrowLeader One Days: https://www.growleader.com/onedays All things GrowLeader:

- GrowLeader Regional | Miami, FL: https://www.growleader.com/regionals

- NEW GrowLeader One Days: https://www.growleader.com/onedays

- Join Monthly Mentoring with Pastor Chris: https://www.growleader.com/monthlymentoring

- Access FREE church resources: https://www.churchofthehighlands.com/resources

- GrowLeader Roundtables: https://www.growleader.com/roundtables

- Develop a Kingdom Builders or Legacy Team: https://www.growleader.com/kbvirtualintensive

- Watch more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@GrowLeaderTeam

. . . .

Follow along on Socials:

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growleader

- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/growleader

. . . .

Thank you to our partners!

- Wesleyan Investment Foundation: https://www.wifonline.com/growleader

- OneHope: https://onehope.net/growleader

- StudioC: https://www.thestudioc.org/growleader

How can churches effectively reach and disciple the next generation of leaders?

In this episode of the GrowLeader Podcast, we sit down with Pastors Mark Pettus and Bubba Massey to dive deep into how churches can build thriving student and college ministries. They discuss the key strategies that help churches engage young people, foster discipleship, and create an irresistible environment for the next generation.

From rethinking youth ministry models to leveraging mentorship and discipleship, they break down what’s working today to equip students for a lifetime of faith. The conversation also explores the power of calling young leaders into ministry, building strong church cultures for students, and the rising hunger among young people for deeper spiritual engagement.

If you’re a pastor or church leader looking to strengthen your student and college ministries, this episode is packed with actionable insights and practical takeaways that will help you create a movement that transforms lives and builds lasting church growth.

If you want to learn more, we would love to invite you to our upcoming GrowLeader One Day all about reaching and discipling students. You can learn more and register for this special one-day event here: https://www.growleader.com/onedays

. . . .

Episode Resources:

- GrowLeader Regional | Miami, FL: https://www.growleader.com/regionals

- NEW GrowLeader One Days: https://www.growleader.com/onedays

- Learn More and Register for GrowLeader Conference 2025: https://www.growleader.com/conference

. . . .

All things GrowLeader:

- GrowLeader Roundtables: https://www.growleader.com/roundtables

- Develop a Kingdom Builders or Legacy Team: https://www.growleader.com/kbvirtualintensive

- Join Monthly Mentoring with Pastor Chris: https://www.growleader.com/monthlymentoring

- Access FREE church resources: https://www.churchofthehighlands.com/resources

- Watch more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@GrowLeaderTeam

. . . .

Follow along on Socials:

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growleader

- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/growleader

. . . .

Thank you to our partners!

- Wesleyan Investment Foundation: https://www.wifonline.com/growleader

- OneHope: https://onehope.net/growleader

- StudioC: https://www.thestudioc.org/growleader

Who will you learn from in 2025?

In this episode of the GrowLeader Podcast, Pastors Chris Hodges and Matt Minor kick off the year by exploring how leaders can grow through intentional models and mentors. Pastor Chris shares personal stories of how he has applied lessons from others to create systems and strategies that have fueled the success of Church of the Highlands.

The discussion dives into the power of learning from other leaders, pursuing mentorship intentionally, and crafting a personal growth plan to stay ahead. Whether you’re leading a church, a business, or simply looking for ways to grow, this episode offers practical wisdom to start your year with focus and purpose.

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Episode Resources:

- 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting: https://21days.churchofthehighlands.com/

- NEW GrowLeader One Days: https://www.growleader.com/onedays

- Join Monthly Mentoring with Pastor Chris: https://www.growleader.com/monthlymentoring

. . . .

All things GrowLeader:

- NEW GrowLeader One Days: https://www.growleader.com/onedays

- Learn More and Register for GrowLeader Conference 2025: https://www.growleader.com/conference

- GrowLeader Roundtables: https://www.growleader.com/roundtables

- Develop a Kingdom Builders or Legacy Team: https://www.growleader.com/kbvirtualintensive

- Join Monthly Mentoring with Pastor Chris: https://www.growleader.com/monthlymentoring

- Access FREE church resources: https://www.churchofthehighlands.com/resources

- Watch more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@GrowLeaderTeam

. . . .

Follow along on Socials:

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growleader

- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/growleader

. . . .

Thank you to our partners!

- Wesleyan Investment Foundation: https://www.wifonline.com/growleader

- OneHope: https://onehope.net/growleader

- StudioC: https://www.thestudioc.org/growleader

How can leaders use their influence to build a legacy that transforms lives and inspires the next generation?

In this episode of the GrowLeader Podcast, we’re highlighting a powerful session from the 2024 Impact Leadership Conference at Highlands College featuring Ed Mylett. A renowned speaker, author, and entrepreneur, Ed shares transformative insights on leadership, legacy, and the power of vision.

He challenges leaders to embrace their pain as a platform for purpose, cast a God-sized vision that inspires others, and empower the next generation to carry the mission forward. With practical advice and inspirational stories, this episode will equip you to lead with conviction, create lasting impact, and build a life that leaves a meaningful legacy.

. . . .

Episode Resources:

- Learn More | Ed Mylett: https://www.edmylett.com/

- Impact Leadership Conference 2025: https://www.research.net/r/ILC25CTA

. . . .

All things GrowLeader:

- NEW GrowLeader One Days: https://www.growleader.com/onedays

- Learn More and Register for GrowLeader Conference 2025: https://www.growleader.com/conference

- GrowLeader Roundtables: https://www.growleader.com/roundtables

- Develop a Kingdom Builders or Legacy Team: https://www.growleader.com/kbvirtualintensive

- Join Monthly Mentoring with Pastor Chris: https://www.growleader.com/monthlymentoring

- Access FREE church resources: https://www.churchofthehighlands.com/resources

- Watch more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@GrowLeaderTeam

. . . .

Follow along on Socials:

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growleader

- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/growleader

. . . .

Thank you to our partners!

- Wesleyan Investment Foundation: https://www.wifonline.com/growleader

- OneHope: https://onehope.net/growleader

- StudioC: https://www.thestudioc.org/growleader

How can leaders reflect, refocus, and reignite their vision to lead effectively into the new year?

In this episode of the GrowLeader Podcast, Pastor Chris Hodges dives into the importance of reflecting on the past year to identify lessons, celebrate wins, and prepare for the future. He shares seven key questions every leader should ask to evaluate their leadership, align their vision and values, and uncover growth opportunities.

This episode offers practical insights on focusing your efforts, empowering your team, and starting the new year with prayer and fasting to invite God’s presence into your plans. Whether you’re looking to grow personally or lead your organization more effectively, these strategies will help you build momentum and make a lasting impact.

. . . .

Episode Resources:

- NEW GrowLeader One Days: https://www.growleader.com/onedays

- Watch last year's December episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JE4dNktIj30

- See Church of the Highlands Values: https://www.churchofthehighlands.com/about

- Pray First Resources: https://www.thomasnelson.com/p/prayfirst/

. . . .

All things GrowLeader:

- Learn More and Register for GrowLeader Conference 2025: https://www.growleader.com/conference

- GrowLeader Roundtables: https://www.growleader.com/roundtables

- Develop a Kingdom Builders or Legacy Team: https://www.growleader.com/kbvirtualintensive

- Join Monthly Mentoring with Pastor Chris: https://www.growleader.com/monthlymentoring

- Access FREE church resources: https://www.churchofthehighlands.com/resources

- Watch more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@GrowLeaderTeam

. . . .

Follow along on Socials:

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growleader

- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/growleader

. . . .

Thank you to our partners!

- Wesleyan Investment Foundation: https://www.wifonline.com/growleader

- OneHope: https://onehope.net/growleader

- StudioC: https://www.thestudioc.org/growleader

. . . .

Timeline:

00:00 - Highlight

00:12 - Reflecting on the Past

07:17 - Evaluating Vision and Values

30:37 - Preparing for the New Year | Prayer and Fasting

32:20 - Thank You, Partners!