Brief Introduction:

In this episode of the Church Circle Podcast, Reuben Rohard sits down with Corbin Phillips, worship leader at Bayside Church and a core voice behind Thrive Worship. Corbin shares wisdom on spiritual formation, songwriting for the Church, and how worship leaders can stay rooted through seasons of growth, family life, and ministry demands.

Takeaways:

Songwriting is about serving the local church, not chasing streams.

Your health as a worship leader matters more than your stage presence.

Spiritual formation fuels long-term creativity and leadership.

Team leadership happens through intentional discipleship and consistency.

Balancing family and ministry requires ruthless prioritization and rhythm.

Key Moments:

2:10 - Corbin shares his early days leading worship and how Thrive Worship organically formed from the heart of the local church.

7:55 - He unpacks how songwriting is more than creativity—it’s discipleship and theology.

12:48 - Corbin discusses how life stage and family life shift how you approach ministry and leadership.

18:25 - He talks about how rhythms and routines help him remain spiritually anchored.

25:10 - He explains how Thrive writes songs that reflect real life in the church, not just radio hits.

33:40 - Corbin offers encouragement to leaders who feel unseen or overwhelmed—reminding them that the quiet seasons are where depth is built.

Practical Tips:

Write songs that your local congregation can sing—not just what sounds trendy.

Set personal spiritual rhythms that keep your heart soft and your spirit full.

Build team culture through one-on-one moments, not just Sunday rehearsals.

Prioritize family health—it’s your first ministry.

Embrace margin in your schedule; space is sacred for creativity and growth.

Guest Information:

Thrive Worship on Spotify

Instagram: @corbinphillips