The Church Planting Podcast with Greg Nettle

Welcome jet pilot, pastor, and author Ricky Brown to unpack the five “hazardous attitudes” every church leader must watch out for—straight from FAA training and powerfully applied to ministry. Ricky draws on his dual experience as a commercial pilot and church planter to share practical, soul-tending wisdom for avoiding burnout and moral failure. Ricky's new book, The 5 Hazardous Attitudes: Ways to Win the War Within, breaks these down through powerful fables and life lessons. Greg and Ricky dive deep into the signs of anti-authority, invulnerability, macho attitudes, impulsivity, and resignation, and how each can destroy ministry, marriages, and leadership if not confronted. Explore more of Ricky's work, speaking, and resources at rickybrown.org. View Ricky's Speaker Reel Instagram: @allthingsrickyb   Connect with Greg Nettle and Stadia Church Planting at https://stadia.org   01:00 - Meet Ricky Brown: Pastor, pilot, and author 02:15 - Planting a 70% unchurched church during the pandemic 04:00 - Tending to your soul as a leader 05:35 - The story behind “The 5 Hazardous Attitudes” 06:15 - Overview of the 5 attitudes: anti-authority, invulnerability, macho, impulsivity, resignation 08:00 - Anti-authority and unresolved trauma 10:00 - Invulnerability: "It won't happen to me" 12:45 - Macho: Proving your worth as a leader 15:00 - Impulsivity: Acting too fast under pressure 18:50 - Guardrails for impulsivity: See your team as safety rails, not speed bumps 20:00 - Aviation stories that mirror leadership failures 23:00 - Resignation: Why leaders give up too soon 25:00 - Leading through darkness and not quitting before breakthrough 26:30 - Where to find Ricky's book and workbook: [rickybrown.org](https://www.rickybrown.org/) 27:00 - Final words on biblical leadership and self-awareness

In this episode of the Church Planting Podcast, Greg Nettle welcomes his longtime friend Brian Tome, founder and senior pastor of Crossroads Church in Cincinnati. Brian unpacks the unfiltered reality of church planting—from answering a magazine ad with 11 strangers to building a church that reaches tens of thousands weekly. He shares how grit, vision clarity, and authenticity have shaped his journey, recounts his “two-for-one” approach to core team building, and challenges leaders to relentlessly pursue new people, not just transfer Christians. Brian and Greg discuss lessons learned the hard way, the importance of work ethic, and the pain and payoff of staying true to your calling—even when it means “ripping people's ears off” before they rip off yours. Brian also dives into Crossroads' outreach—like fighting sex trafficking in Nepal, developing software for prison ministry, and building the CityLink Center. He reflects on personal health, relational boundaries, and leading with authenticity (yes, even smoking a Marlboro onstage once to make a point!). The conversation is packed with wisdom for anyone in the trenches of church leadership or just starting out. Books/Resources Mentioned: The Five Marks of a Man by Brian Tome Man Camp Robert Lewis' books on outreach and apologetics 01:20 - Brian's journey to Cincinnati and unexpected beginnings 03:08 - The reality of early church planting: 11 people, high risk 04:30 - Building the core: relentless networking and vision casting 05:28 - Church planting in the 90s: no playbook, pure hustle 06:07 - Work ethic and chasing the right people for the vision 08:01 - Defining and protecting the church's vision 09:21 - Vision morphs: from seeker to world-changing community 10:23 - Crossroads' growth: campuses, online reach, and impact 11:11 - Outreach: Fighting sex trafficking, prison ministry, CityLink Center 12:00 - How outreach became central to Crossroads' DNA 13:44 - Outrageous generosity and its ripple effect 14:21 - What Brian wishes he knew starting out: double-edged sword of no systems 15:54 - Creativity vs. standardization: finding your unique path 16:50 - The power and limitation of mentors and advice 18:52 - Keys to long-term health: personal, relational, spiritual 21:19 - Building authentic relationships inside the church 22:43 - Hobbies, friendships, and avoiding isolation in ministry 23:09 - The cost and value of authenticity in leadership 24:51 - Navigating church culture: authenticity and boundaries 26:13 - Authenticity means sharing struggles, not just victories 27:32 - Preaching: teaching rhythms, preparation, and team development 30:05 - Finding your own preaching rhythm and developing others 31:44 - Loving your spouse while leading a growing church 32:55 - Last words: legacy, faithfulness, and friendship

In this episode of "The Church Planting Podcast," hosted by Greg Nettle, president of Stadia Church Planting, guests Josh Abernathy and Clint Nolder discuss their experiences as church planters navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. They share personal and corporate insights on leading their congregations through unprecedented times, adapting to new realities, and maintaining their mission despite significant obstacles. Key topics include: The impact of the pandemic on church operations and community engagement. Strategies for maintaining church growth and connection during lockdowns. Personal challenges and growth experienced by the church leaders. Listeners can find more information about Stadia Church Planting at https://stadia.org Episode Index 00:00:01 - Introduction by Greg Nettle, president of Stadia Church Planting. 00:00:57 - Introduction of guests, Josh Abernathy and Clint, and the episode's focus. 00:01:01 - Josh Abernathy shares the story of starting City Church and leading through the pandemic. 00:02:31 - Discussion on the impact of the pandemic's timing coinciding with the church's anniversary. 00:03:18 - Clint talks about his church planting experience in Newnan, Georgia. 00:04:50 - The personal impact of the pandemic on church leaders. 00:06:25 - Challenges of not having a physical meeting space during early pandemic closures. 00:07:14 - Managing differing opinions within the church community during the pandemic. 00:08:08 - Josh describes personal and leadership challenges during the pandemic. 00:09:56 - Mental health and the need for counseling among church leaders. 00:11:17 - Exploring the possibility of quitting ministry due to pandemic pressures. 00:12:29 - Reflecting on the church's role and response during the pandemic. 00:15:11 - How the pandemic solidified the mission and values of their churches. 00:18:10 - Adapting church methods to maintain mission integrity during restrictions. 00:19:37 - Clint discusses the shift in community engagement and evangelistic efforts post-pandemic. 00:22:54 - Decision to stop live streaming services to foster better community and discipleship. 00:26:08 - The importance of church happening beyond Sunday services. 00:27:45 - Closing remarks by Greg Nettle and gratitude expressed to guests for their insights

In this episode of "The Church Planting Podcast," Greg Nettle chats with Vance Pitman, president of Send Network and founder of Hope Church Las Vegas. Pitman shares his transformative journey from devotional readings to planting a vibrant, multi-ethnic community church in Las Vegas. He emphasizes the importance of intimacy with Christ, viewing ministry as an overflow of this relationship, and the necessity of contextual church planting strategies suited to urban settings. To connect with Vance and Send Network, visit https://www.namb.net/send-network/ To connect with Greg and Stadia, visit https://stadia.org 00:00:01 - Introduction by Greg Nettle 00:00:25 - Introduction of Vance Pitman 00:01:02 - Welcome and conversation begins 00:01:59 - Vance's call to church planting 00:03:01 - Decision to plant in Las Vegas 00:04:01 - Moving and preparing for Las Vegas 00:05:13 - The role of intimacy in ministry 00:06:26 - The impact of church planting on Pitman's family 00:07:10 - Importance of listening to God's voice 00:08:23 - Challenges of moving to Las Vegas with family 00:09:09 - The success of Hope Church in transforming lives 00:10:20 - Advice for church planters on family and faith 00:11:09 - Church diversity and authenticity 00:13:11 - Team-based church planting approach 00:14:12 - Vance's extensive church planting experience 00:15:00 - Shifts in church planting strategies 00:17:18 - Biblical foundations for urban church planting 00:18:58 - The rise of micro churches and co-vocational planters 00:21:22 - Future trends in church planting 00:23:02 - Lessons learned from decades of ministry 00:25:17 - Key advice for new church planters 00:26:19 - Global impact and mission of the church 00:27:25 - How to connect with Send Network 00:28:15 - Closing remarks and sports talk

In this episode of "The Church Planting Podcast," Greg Nettle discusses with Don Hamilton, the author of Lead Like a Bodyguard: 52 Timeless Leadership Lessons. They explore key insights into leadership and church planting, drawing on lessons from the life of Nehemiah. Key topics include handling opposition, celebrating milestones, and the importance of team recognition. Connect with Don: https://www.donmarkhamilton.com/ Get Lead Like a Bodyguard on Amazon: https://a.co/d/9bFU4eD Connect with Stadia and Greg Nettle: https://stadia.org 0:54 - Discussing key leadership lessons from *Lead Like a Bodyguard* and their applications in church planting 8:09 - How to handle opposition as a church leader and its implications in church planting 10:16 - The importance of celebrating achievements and recognizing team contributions in leadership 16:04 - Discussing the need for moral integrity and the challenges leaders face 19:44 - Strategies for effectively managing change within the church context 24:34 - Insights into balancing roles as a leader and a parent  

In this episode of "The Church Planting Podcast," host Greg Nettle, president of Stadia Church Planting, engages with guests Marc Cleary and Dino Rizzo. They discuss the nuances of church planting, the importance of clarity in calling, and the attributes of successful church leaders. Marc and Dino share their extensive experience in fostering thriving church communities through the Association of Related Churches (ARC). They emphasize the significance of financial health, strong personal relationships, and a clear vision for future church leaders. For more about their work, visit ARC's website: https://www.arcchurches.com To connect with host Greg Nettle and Stadia, visit https://stadia.org [00:00:00] Introduction by Greg Nettle [00:01:09] Welcome guests Marc Cleary and Dino Rizzo [00:02:06] Dino Rizzo's backstory in church planting [00:03:25] Marc's entry into church planting [00:04:29] Current trends and successful attributes in church planting [00:06:10] Importance of clarity in calling [00:07:17] Discussion on the need for a compelling vision [00:10:12] Criteria for a successful church plant [00:11:02] Importance of a healthy marriage for church planters [00:13:01] Financial scrutiny and its importance [00:15:43] Encouraging young church planters [00:17:37] Advice for older individuals considering church planting [00:19:48] Red flags in potential church planters [00:25:07] Conclusion and partnership discussion between ARC and Stadia

In this episode of The Church Planting Podcast, hosted by Greg Nettle of Stadia Church Planting, we dive deep into the world of church planting with guest Chad Clarkson, Executive Director of the Houston Church Planting Network (HCPN). Chad shares his journey and experiences in fostering a culture of collaboration among church planters in Houston, one of the most diverse cities in the U.S. Key topics include the strategic vision based on Acts 1:8, the efficacy of church networks, and the vital roles of mentorship and multi-site strategies. The discussion also touches upon innovative church models and the benefits of being part of a network that both challenges and supports church planters. [00:00:00] Introduction to the podcast and guest Chad Clarkson. [00:01:30] Chad discusses the origins and vision of the Houston Church Planting Network. [00:03:34] Explanation of HCPN's impact on church planting in Houston. [00:06:02] Challenges and successes of sustaining a church planting network. [00:07:25] The vision, mission, and values of HCPN. [00:09:00] Metrics of success: how many churches have been started. [00:11:19] Benefits for church planters in joining a network. [00:13:56] Discussion on residencies and their importance in church planting training. [00:16:18] Sources of church planting residents and the attributes of successful planters. [00:17:34] Networking opportunities and resources for church planters. [00:18:56] Diversity in church planting models and the financial structure of HCPN. [00:22:01] Expanding church planting efforts to the Latino community. [00:24:33] Conclusion and thanks to guest.

In this episode of "The Church Planting Podcast," hosted by Greg Nettle, president of Stadia, the discussion features Jon Ferguson, co-founding pastor of Community Christian Church and a pioneer in church multiplication. The conversation covers the benefits and challenges of team leadership in church planting, drawing from Jon's extensive experience and his co-leadership with his brother, Dave Ferguson. Key topics include the advantages of starting with a team, the importance of complementary skills within the team, and the potential pitfalls of team dynamics. The episode also delves into the concepts of micro churches and bi-vocational church planting, highlighting their growing relevance and effectiveness in the current religious landscape. Jon and Greg discuss several resources and books that have influenced their approaches, including Jon's book "Exponential" and the new "Bless" practices for community engagement, detailed in their recent publication. For listeners interested in exploring these resources, you can check out "Exponential" on Amazon and learn more about the "Bless" practices on the BLESS app's website. Episode Outline with Timestamps [00:00:19] Introduction of Jon Ferguson and his background [00:01:08] Discussion on team leadership in church planting [00:05:22] Celebrating 35 years of Community Christian Church [00:07:17] Advantages of starting church plants in teams [00:10:23] Identifying essential team roles and dynamics [00:14:45] Shift to discussing micro churches and co-vocational models [00:19:13] Discussing the potential downsides and challenges of team planting [00:23:32] Personal insights from Jon on leadership roles [00:26:53] Personal anecdotes and the importance of community engagement [00:31:35] Introduction of the Bless app for community outreach  

In this episode of The Church Planting Podcast, Greg Nettle, President of Stadia, discusses the delicate balance between faith and financial wisdom with COO Matt Murphy. They explore the challenges and strategies involved in managing church finances, highlighting the importance of having a plan, understanding the risks of poor stewardship, and the necessity of wise investing. They also emphasize the pitfalls of financial management in church settings, such as over-saving or reckless spending. The episode provides valuable insights for church leaders on navigating finances with faith and prudence. Key topics include the parable of talents and building on solid foundations as illustrated in Matthew 7.' [00:01:20] - Faith in Finances: Matt discusses how faith influences financial decisions in church planting. [00:03:14] - Financial Foolishness: Exploring what constitutes financial foolishness. [00:04:13] - Pitfalls of Financial Management: Discussion on the balance between faith and practical financial stewardship. [00:06:06] - Biblical Insights on Finances: Examples from the book of Matthew on managing resources. [00:08:27] - Leadership and Financial Oversight: The role of vision and strategic budgeting in church finances. [00:10:51] - Vision and Financial Challenges: How shifting visions can complicate financial planning. [00:15:28] - Reserve Funds and Budgeting: Strategies for maintaining financial health and planning for the future. [00:21:28] - Importance of Business Acumen in Boards: The balance of faith and business expertise in governance. [00:24:27] - Gratitude in Finance: The importance of thanking and acknowledging donors.

This episode of "The Church Planting Podcast," hosted by Greg Nettle, president of Stadia Church Planting, features Andrea Wells. Andrea discusses the importance of developing personalized and systematic care strategies for team members, investors, and partners within church planting initiatives. Highlights include her recent trek in Olympic National Park to raise funds for new churches and detailed strategies for personalizing care in organizational settings.  Connect with Greg, Andrea, and Stadia at https://stadia.org [00:00:23] Introduction of Andrea Wells and her role at Stadia [00:00:48] The importance of care in organizational contexts [00:01:10] Discussion on personal and professional background of Andrea [00:01:40] Andrea's trekking experience for church funding [00:02:29] Deep dive into the philosophy and methods of caring [00:06:06] Andrea's strategy for developing a care system [00:08:03] Use of Asana and Google Forms for managing care tasks [00:11:34] Budget considerations for implementing a care plan [00:14:39] Non-material ways of showing care [00:17:29] Practical examples of caring through personal gestures [00:19:56] Team collaboration and the integration of personal strengths in care systems [00:21:31] Discussion on bereavement and personal experiences of support [00:26:30] Andrea's current readings and recommendations on relevant literature [00:27:56] Conclusion and thanks to Andrea Wells

In this episode of The Church Planting Podcast, Greg Nettle, president of Stadia Church Planting, chats with Steve Porter, chair of the Stadia board. They delve into the essential qualities and functions of a good church board member, highlighting the challenges church leaders face in financial management due to their lack of training in this area. Steve shares his extensive experience on various boards, emphasizing the importance of financial literacy and transparency for nonprofit leaders. They also discuss the role of policy governance in maintaining an effective board by setting clear boundaries and responsibilities. [00:00:18] - Introduction of Steve Porter, background on his board experience. [00:01:03] - Steve joins the podcast, discusses his journey with Greg and involvement in church boards. [00:02:15] - Importance of financial education for pastors. [00:05:29] - Discussion on ensuring transparency and understanding financial controls. [00:06:44] - Shift to policy governance, its benefits and pitfalls. [00:12:00] - Characteristics of an effective board member: encouragement, wise counsel, accountability. [00:14:49] - Ideal composition of a church board and strategic member selection. [00:19:04] - The personal connection between board members and their support for the leader. [00:22:11] - The role of a board in supporting personal and spiritual goals of the leader. [00:24:52] - Wrapping up, the joys and challenges of serving on a nonprofit board. [00:26:37] - Conclusion and thanks to Steve Porter. Connect with Greg and Stadia at https://stadia.org

This episode of "The Church Planting Podcast" features Carrie Williams, Executive Director of Exponential Next, discussing the challenges and strategies of engaging the next generation in church planting. Carrie shares her journey from personal transformation to leading church initiatives and highlights the importance of apprenticeship and internships to involve young people. The conversation also explores various innovative church planting modalities like micro churches and network churches, which align with the strengths and interests of younger generations. Greg Nettle and Carrie delve into how different approaches, including entrepreneurial and hybrid models, can adapt to contemporary challenges and opportunities in church growth and disciple-making. Connect with Greg and Stadia Church Planting: https://stadia.org Connect with Carrie and Exponential Next: https://www.exponential.org/next Episode Outline with Timestamps: [00:00:23] Introduction of Carrie Williams and her background [00:01:08] Carrie's journey into ministry and church planting [00:02:06] Challenges of engaging the next generation in church planting [00:03:16] Discussion on apprenticeship and internships for youth [00:04:12] Effective strategies for mobilizing young people [00:05:55] Innovations and new modalities in church planting discussed [00:07:17] Shift in church planter demographics and implications [00:09:39] Growth and potential of micro churches and network churches [00:14:00] The hybrid model of church network discussed [00:17:00] Exponential's Shark Tank and support for innovative projects [00:21:13] Discussion on generational differences and engaging young leaders [00:23:15] Future of Exponential and achieving the mission of church multiplication [00:24:34] Carrie's current engagements and recommendations

In this episode of The Church Planting Podcast, host Greg Nettle talks with Dr. Tim Harlow, former senior pastor at Parkview Christian Church. They delve into Tim's transformative leadership that grew Parkview from a congregation of 150 to over 10,000 members, embracing multisite campuses. This episode offers deep reflections on the challenges and milestones of church leadership and growth. Tim shares his journey starting in January 1990, with a focus on overcoming internal conflicts and aligning his congregation towards a shared vision. He emphasizes the significance of leadership in guiding church growth and the crucial role of preaching in attracting and retaining the congregation. For church planters and leaders seeking further resources, this episode highlights several important frameworks and organizations such as Blessing Ranch, which provides counseling for pastors, and Stadia Church Planting, an organization dedicated to planting new churches for the next generation worldwide.

We're celebrating 100 episodes of The Church Planting Podcast by returning to the question that started it all: why church planting? Greg invites Paul Taylor, co-founder of Rivers Crossing Church in Cincinnati, to discuss their shared passion for church multiplication. They dive into Paul's journey from skepticism to deep faith and his subsequent dedication to church planting. The episode also highlights collaborative efforts like the Extraordinary Church Collective and strategic initiatives for global church growth. They discuss technological advances in church planting, including digital churches, and strategies for reducing overhead to maximize ministry impact. To connect with Stadia and learn more about how you can help start thriving, growing, multiplying churches for the next generation, visit Stadia Church Planting. Connect with Paul https://extraordinarychurchcollective.com/ https://riverscrossing.com/ Connect with Greg and Stadia https://stadia.org Episode Time and Topic Index [00:00:00] Introduction to the 100th episode and guest Paul Taylor [00:00:47] Paul Taylor's background and passion for church planting [00:02:00] Discussion on why church planting is effective for spreading the gospel [00:04:21] Paul's personal journey to becoming a church planter [00:07:00] The story of Rivers Crossing and its foundational principles [00:12:24] Evolution of church planting strategies and systems over the years [00:14:29] The impact of church planting on local and global scales [00:17:21] Future of digital church planting and resource allocation [00:21:04] Challenges facing church multiplication today [00:25:00] Fun segment on personal interests and readings [00:27:32] Closing remarks and reflections on the 100th episode

In this episode of "The Church Planting Podcast," host Greg Nettle reconnects with Gary Thomas, a prolific author known for works like Sacred Marriage and Cherish. They discuss the critical role of nurturing marital relationships amidst the pressures of church planting. Gary emphasizes the concept of "cherishing" over mere love, advocating for a deeper, more respectful partnership. The conversation covers practical advice on maintaining and enriching marriages, recognizing the challenges specific to those in ministry. They also delve into strategies to safeguard marriages against infidelity and the importance of genuine interaction within the marriage and in public perceptions. [00:00] - Introduction  [00:19] - Introduction of guest Gary Thomas, highlighting his contributions and publications. [01:04] - Gary shares personal anecdotes and the importance of marital health in church planting. [02:44] - Discussion on trends in marriage, particularly challenges faced by those in ministry. [04:58] - Deep dive into the concept of "cherishing" in marriage. [09:11] - Practical advice on transforming marriage by renewing perception and appreciation. [13:25] - Role of authenticity and safe spaces in strengthening marriage. [17:30] - Strategies for finishing well in marriage and ministry. [26:32] - Closing

Greg discusses the integration of digital marketing and AI tools in church leadership with guest Kenny Jahng, a digital marketing expert and founder of AI for Church Leaders. They explore the misconceptions about marketing in church contexts, emphasizing the importance of adopting digital-first strategies to connect with communities effectively. Key topics include the role of websites as the "digital front door" to churches, the relevance of creating valuable online content, and the practical use of AI in sermon preparation and church management. Connect with Kenny: AI for Church Leaders ChurchTechToday, where Kenny serves as editor-in-chief Connect with Greg stadia.org Episode Index [00:00] Introduction  [01:06] Discussion on marketing in church contexts [02:18] Defining a "digital-first world" and its implications for churches [03:28] The concept of the digital front door and optimizing church websites [04:24] Strategies for engaging visitors through church websites [07:48] Integrating content and interaction in digital church strategies [12:53] Refreshing digital presence and maintaining a dynamic website [12:58] Introduction to AI for church leaders and its benefits [16:50] Exploring AI tools for sermon writing and church management [18:28] The Art of Engagement: a framework for effective digital outreach [24:28] Establishing authority and building trust through online presence [27:07] Closing thoughts and where to find Kenny Jahng online

Larrie Fraley is a founding member and the Global Outreach Pastor at Christ Church of the Valley in Peoria, Arizona. Larrie and host Greg Nettle discuss staying spiritually and physically healthy for the long haul in ministry, amidst the challenging times ahead, including the election year and beyond. Fraley shares insights on maintaining passion for ministry, the importance of a personal relationship with God, physical fitness, and the balance of family and ministry life. Greg also touches on the significant growth of Christ Church of the Valley and its contributions to church planting globally, and the importance of leaving a lasting legacy. Connect with Greg and Stadia Church Planting: stadia.org Connect with Larrie and Christ Church of the Valley: ccv.church Episode Index [00:01:33] Discussion on staying healthy for the long haul in ministry. [00:02:11] Larrie Fraley shares his approach to maintaining passion and health in ministry. [00:05:03] Insights on the importance of physical fitness for effective ministry. [00:06:43] Daily routines for staying physically active and strong. [00:08:01] The role of community, family, and mental health in overall well-being. [00:10:05] Easter attendance at Christ Church of the Valley and the impact of baptisms. [00:12:04] Legacy of church planting and the global impact of partnered organizations. [00:16:20] Advice for young church planters and leaders on maintaining balance in life and ministry. [00:19:47] Current activities and readings to stay sharp and informed on Christian responses to societal issues. [00:22:32] Conclusion and gratitude for Larrie Fraley's participation.

Meet Angela and Gianni Gaeta, founders of Impact Europe. Based in Vienna, they are dedicated to bringing godly influence into every sphere of secular society by planting vibrant Churches and training leaders throughout Central Europe. Starting from Angela's unexpected call to mission, to their eventual life together in Austria focusing on church planting and leadership training, their story is one of faith, dedication, and transformation. Their approach, "open your home, your heart, and your fridge," emphasizes building community from the ground up. Connect with Gianni and Angela: https://www.impacteurope.info Connect with Greg and Stadia Church Planting: https://stadia.org Episode Outline [00:00:20] Meeting Angela and Gianni: The Call of God [00:01:30] Angela's Early Life and Unexpected Call to Mission [00:02:31] First Steps Towards Mission Work in Austria [00:07:11] Angela's Struggles and Confirmation of Her Call [00:11:26] Transitioning from Visitor to Missionary in Austria [00:12:51] Meeting Gianni and Their Path to Marriage [00:15:57] The Couple's Church Planting Journey in Austria [00:20:20] Current State of Church Planting and Impact Europe [00:24:02] The Strategy of "Open Your Home, Your Heart, and Your Fridge" [00:26:46] How to Learn More About Their Ministry

Greg talks with soul care expert Mindy Caliguire about maintaining and nurturing leaders' well-being while under the pressures of church planting and leadership. Mindy shares insights from her forthcoming book, "Ignite Your Soul: When Exhaustion, Isolation, and Burnout Light a Path to Flourishing," on the importance of soul care, structural integrity, and the essential practices leaders must adopt to thrive in challenging times. The conversation covers various aspects, including the necessity of building a robust internal foundation to handle the leadership weight, the significance of personal and relational integrity, and the strategic steps leaders can take to prepare for and navigate through politically charged and tumultuous periods. They emphasize creating a soul care plan, incorporating regular self-reflection, and establishing a supportive community as crucial components for leaders aiming to sustain their mission and vision healthily and effectively. To connect with Greg and Stadia, check out Stadia Church Planting Episode Content [00:00:00] Introduction by Greg Nettle and overview of Stadia's mission. [00:00:22] Introduction of Mindy Caliguire and her contributions to soul care and her forthcoming book. [00:02:07] Discussion on the importance of preparing leaders for politically charged times ahead. [00:05:10] Personal reflections on the challenges and necessities of leadership health post-pandemic. [00:06:26] Strategies for building foundational strength for future leadership challenges. [00:09:03] The significance of inspecting and improving personal and relational integrity. [00:12:43] Practical steps for leaders to thrive in the next 18 to 24 months. [00:22:12] The role of a structured soul care plan in ensuring leadership effectiveness. [00:29:48] Closing thoughts and appreciation for the insights shared by Mindy Caliguire.

In this episode of "The Church Planting Podcast," host Greg Nettle, president of Stadia Church Planting, engages in a deep dive conversation with Doug Foltz, a seasoned church planting strategist and Director of Startup Services at Stadia. They explore the nuances of starting new churches, focusing on common mistakes church planters make and providing invaluable insights for navigating the challenging but rewarding journey of church growth. Key topics include the importance of team-based planting, contextualizing church efforts to fit community needs, developing a personal spiritual formation plan, prioritizing people over tasks, and the critical need for building relationships with those outside the faith. This episode serves as a comprehensive guide for church leaders and planters aiming to create impactful, enduring church communities. Connect with Stadia Church Planting Episode Contents: [00:00:00] Introduction by Greg Nettle [00:01:00] Doug Foltz's journey into church planting [00:03:31] The evolution of Doug's role in supporting church planters [00:07:19] Mistake #1: Planting Alone [00:12:03] Mistake #2: Not Contextualizing [00:20:43] Mistake #3: Lack of Personal Spiritual Formation Plan [00:25:12] Mistake #4: Prioritizing Tasks Over People [00:30:00] Mistake #5: Not Building Relationships with Non-believers [00:34:41] Conclusion and anticipation for future discussions on generative AI in ministry

In this episode of The Church Planting Podcast, Greg talks with Dr. Scott Todd, president of One Child and co-founder of Bridgeley, discussing the impactful role of church planting in caring for children globally. Scott shares insights from his extensive experience in child development and church collaboration, emphasizing the strategic use of technology through Bridgeley to foster intercultural relationships and direct support for children in need. They delve into the potential of churches as hope centers, where local champions (teachers, coaches, youth pastors) are empowered to support children's growth and development. The dialogue highlights the importance of strategic, faith-driven efforts to engage the next generation in meaningful causes, demonstrating how technological advancements can bridge the gap between supporters and frontline communities, thus enhancing the global church's mission. One Child: https://www.onechild.org/ Bridgeley: https://www.bridgeley.org/ 00:00:20 - Scott's Background and Connections with Stadia and Greg 00:02:33 - Scott Todd on the Mission of Reaching Kids in Hard Places 00:03:22 - Introduction to One Child and Bridgely 00:04:50 - The Role of Technology in Child Care 00:07:04 - Personal Sponsorship Stories and Bridgely's Impact 00:09:14 - Addressing Entitlement and Compassion through Bridgely 00:10:07 - How to Get Involved with Bridgely and One Child 00:11:42 - Global Perspective on Risks and Opportunities for Children 00:14:07 - Engaging the Next Generation with Purpose and Learning 00:17:11 - Parenting for Impact and Encouraging Young Agents of Change 00:19:01 - Raising Kids with Global Awareness and Compassion 00:22:07 - Hope Centers and the Church's Role in Child Development 00:25:37 - Practical Steps for Engaging with Bridgely and One Child

This episode features a deep dive into leading churches effectively through politically and racially charged environments. Hosted by Greg Nettle, President of Stadia Church Planting, the episode welcomes Chuck Mingo and Troy Jackson, co-founders of Undivided, focusing on racial healing and justice. The discussion revolves around the necessity of courage, empathy, and practical steps for church leaders to foster unity and address sensitive issues. Key highlights include the introduction of the "Living Undivided" book and Bible study, strategies for pastoral leadership in divisive times, and the importance of listening and empathy in building a community. For more about "Living Undivided," visit Undivided. For more info about Stadia Church Planting visit https://stadia.org Episode Index: [00:00:25] Guests introduction: Chuck Mingo and Troy Jackson, their work with Undivided [00:01:19] Importance of the episode's topic for church leaders [00:01:31] Discussion on "Living Undivided" book [00:02:31] Reflections on the upcoming politically and racially charged months [00:04:02] The necessary postures for leaders during challenging times [00:05:38] Equipping church members for healthy, diverse conversations [00:08:47] Developing empathy within the church community [00:11:10] Breaking out of echo chambers for broader perspectives [00:12:22] Introduction of the Living Undivided Bible Study [00:15:21] Guidance for pastors in navigating political and racial discussions [00:23:12] Addressing immigration as a key issue for church leadership [00:31:42] Navigating racial tensions and understanding within the church community [00:34:35] Participation in undivided virtual cohorts for church leaders

Join host Greg Nettle and Josh Burnett (church.tech) for a discussion on the integration of generative AI and technology in church planting and leadership. Josh shares his journey from being a preaching intern at Southeast Christian Church (Louisville, KY) to starting Revolution Church in Annapolis, focusing on community needs like child hunger. Following these church leadership roles, Josh and his wife Sarah founded Flourish, a nonprofit operating system, and later, Church.Tech, which offers AI tools for churches. We're taking a deep dive into the potential of AI in sermon preparation and church management, in order to increase the time church leaders can spend with people and increase productivity and creativity. Introduction (00:00-00:57) Josh Burnett's background and journey (00:58-02:35) Transition to church planting (02:36-04:31) Experiences at Revolution Church (04:32-05:43) Addressing child hunger in Annapolis (05:44-07:50) Transitioning out of church leadership (07:51-09:18) Founding Flourish and Church.Tech (09:19-11:00) Theological considerations of AI in church (11:01-14:20) Practical applications of AI in sermon preparation (14:21-17:55) Church.Tech's features and goals (17:56-20:42) Future developments in Church.Tech (20:43-23:00) Conclusion and thanks (23:01-28:40) Connect with resources mentioned in this episode: https://church.tech https://onflourish.org/ https://stadia.org

Greg talks to Daniel Escobar about multiplying and training disciples, Latino culture, and the need to learn from each other on this encore episode of the Church Planting Podcast. Daniel Escobar was born and raised in Baja California, Mexico. Daniel relocated to Virginia in 2002, two years after getting married. He first planted Iglesia La Red in Williamsburg, Virginia in 2005. Seven years later he and his family moved to Washington DC to plant the second church in 2015. In 2017, he and his wife founded La Red Network, which is a church planting network in the US and Latin America that he is the director of. This is now his main focus in ministry. La Red Network has taken him many places around the world and allowed him to live in Mexico and Argentina. He is also a business owner in different industries in the private and government sectors. Connect with Daniel https://larednetwork.org https://www.facebook.com/larednetwork https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/la-red-podcast/id1568755174   Connect with Greg  https://stadia.org    

Note: This is a rebroadcast of Episode 67. This encore episode of "The Church Planting Podcast," hosted by Greg Nettle, features Warren Bird, ECFA's Senior Vice President of Research and Equipping. The focus is on Bird's comprehensive study titled "The New Faces of Church Planting," which is the largest ever study of church planters, involving 2,700 participants, mostly in North America. Key findings include the rising trend of church multiplication, with an increased desire and actual implementation of church planting networks. The episode discusses various factors contributing to successful church multiplication, such as being part of a multiplication group, setting specific goals, and the leader's involvement in developing new leaders. Greg and Warren also cover the increasing prevalence of multiracial churches, especially among younger church planters, and the implications of digital technology in church planting. The episode emphasizes the importance of church planting in the growth and innovation of Christianity, highlighting the role of church planters in experimenting with new approaches to reach diverse populations. Content mentioned in this episode: "The New Faces of Church Planting" report: https://www.ecfa.org/Surveys.aspx

Greg Nettle, President of Stadia Church Planting, and church planter Dave Jane talk about what you can do to lead well and help yourself and your staff balance ministry and family during the holidays. The discussion centers around managing the aftermath of the Christmas season for church leaders, focusing on maintaining staff and family health. Dave and Greg talk about five vital areas of ministry and family health for the holidays: Adapting Traditions: Dave Jane shares how his family and church staff adapt Christmas traditions to accommodate the demands of church services, including the involvement of children in church activities. Staff Care and Appreciation: Ideas like Christmas bonuses, staff traditions, and taking a break between Christmas and New Year are discussed as ways to appreciate and care for church staff. Dealing with Post-Christmas Adrenaline Crash: Both leaders talk about the physical and emotional toll of the festive season on church leaders, offering strategies like sleep, family involvement, outdoor activities, and planning downtime to recuperate. Spiritual and Emotional Health: They touch upon the importance of spiritual and emotional well-being, guarding against burnout and temptations post the festive rush. Practical Leadership Tips: The episode also includes practical tips for church leadership, such as advanced planning of sermon series and engaging in servant leadership within the family post the big church events. For more information about how to connect with Stadia and resources related to church planting and leadership, you can visit Stadia Church Planting's website at stadia.org.

Join host Greg Nettle and guest Jeff Bennett, focusing on their passion for learning and reading. They discuss ten books and podcasts that have impacted them, offering insights into leadership, spirituality, and personal growth. Top 10 Resources Mentioned in this podcast in no particular order From Strength to Strength by Arthur Brooks: https://www.amazon.com/From-Strength-Finding-Success-Happiness/dp/059319148X Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara: https://www.amazon.com/Unreasonable-Hospitality-Remarkable-Giving-People/dp/0593420835 l My Knotted Up Life by Beth Moore: https://www.amazon.com/All-My-Knotted-Up-Life/dp/149645570X Life Without Lack by Dallas Willard: https://www.amazon.com/Life-Without-Lack-Living-Fullness/dp/1400208215 Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey: https://www.amazon.com/Greenlights-Matthew-McConaughey/dp/0593139135 Once You See by Jeff Christofferson: https://www.amazon.com/Once-You-See-Temptations-Western/dp/1734868844 Right Color, Wrong Culture by Brian Loritz: https://www.amazon.com/Right-Color-Wrong-Culture-Organization/dp/0802412506 "What It's Like To Be" Podcast by Dan Heath:  https://www.danheath.com/what-its-like-to-be/ "The Fourth Quarter of Your Life" by Matthew Kelly, Thomas Hunt: https://a.co/d/9mmCvIG "Praying Like Monks, Living Like Fools" by Tyler Staton: A book about prayer that addresses roadblocks to praying and invites deeper engagement with God  https://a.co/d/2P7vM38  

In this episode of "The Church Planting Podcast," Greg Nettle interviews Brian Ziegler, a church planter and senior leader of Rivertree Fairless. Brian shares his remarkable journey of overcoming personal challenges and his commitment to church planting. Links and organizations mentioned on today's podcast episode: Rivertree Fairless: Church Website Brian Ziegler's Book, "A Paralyzing Redemption": Amazon Link Compassion International: Official Website Christian Children Homes of Ohio (CCHO): Official Website Stadia Church Planting: Official Website

Join Greg Nettle in a riveting discussion with author and leadership expert Kadi Cole, as we explore the evolving landscape of church leadership. In this episode, Kadi shares her wealth of experience in ministry and her unique insights into developing leaders in church settings. Kadi provides practical strategies for cultivating inclusive leadership practices and addresses the complex gender dynamics within the church. Whether you're a church leader, a ministry worker, or simply interested in the intersection of faith and leadership, this conversation with Kadi Cole offers valuable perspectives on nurturing a diverse and dynamic leadership environment in modern churches. Kadi Cole has extensive experience in church ministry, having served as an executive director at one of America's largest multi-site churches and as a founding member of the Women's Executive Pastor Network. She is also an author, with books like "Sticky Note Leadership," "Developing Female Leaders," and "Find Your Leadership Voice in 90 Days." Connect with Kadi at https://www.kadicole.com/ Connect with Greg and Stadia at https://stadia.org

Greg welcomes Tim Celek to the podcast. During Tim's tenure as Lead Pastor, the Crossing Church in Costa Mesa, CA resourced five new churches, which makes Tim's role of Senior Director of New Church Growth with Stadia the perfect fit for this Harley-loving church planter. Tim loves to sail, loves to ride, and he loves to help new church planters. On this episode, Tim shares the top five challenges he's seeing in church leadership and church planting today. Connect with Greg and Tim at https://stadia.org  

Greg talks with Jason Lantz, the Vision Leader and First Church Lead Pastor of the Rivertree Movement in Northeast Ohio (https://rivertreechristian.com/), about RiverTree's network of churches and how to create a network in your region. Connect with Jason https://rivertreechristian.com/ Connect with Greg https://stadia.org

On this episode, Greg talks with Aaron Brockett (Lead Pastor, Trader's Point Christian Church, Indianapolis) about what it's like to launch and lead a church as an introvert. Since he joined Trader's Point in 2007, it has grown from 1,500 people in 1 location to nearly 10,000 people in 6 locations. And Aaron has done all of that while being an introverted leader. So how do you plant a church? How do you grow a church as an introvert? Listen to this episode to find out!

Today's guest on the Church Planting Podcast is Crystal Chiang. She's the Executive Director of Leadership Training at Orange. Learn about the new metrics of ministry success.  And while you listen to the podcast, be sure to check out the Orange Fall Tour, coming to a city near you.    Use the code STADIAOT2310 when you register at https://orangetour.org/ to receive 10% off your registration. Connect with Crystal: https://orangetour.org/ https://www.thinkorange.com Connect with Greg: https://www.stadia.org  

Greg talks with Heidy Tandy, Stadia's Senior Director of Discovery, about Stadia's Discovery Center for potential new-church leaders, and how this three-phase process of exploration, discernment, and discovery will help you answer the questions, "Am I called?," "Am I ready?," "What's my skill set?," and "What are my next steps?" Connect with Heidy and Stadia's Discovery Center: https://stadiachurchplanting.org/start/ https://stadiachurchplanting.org/services/discoverycenter/  

On this episode of The Church Planting Podcast, Greg talks with Lumar Vargas. Lumar started Aviva Church in Cleveland, Ohio. As Aviva celebrates their one-year anniversary, Greg and Lumar explore Lumar's unique calling and context as a co-vocational Latina pastor and church planter in Cleveland. Lumar shares practical leadership lessons from the past few years leading up to Aviva's launch. Get the Full Transcript Connect with Lumar: https://avivacleveland.org Connect with Greg and Stadia Church Planting: https://stadia.org  

On this episode of the Church Planting Podcast, Mike Tooley joins Greg to talk leadership. Mike is an attorney in Indianapolis and an executive coach. Mike and Greg provide many valuable insights on leadership in this episode, including how to play your strengths as a leader, how to get a coach, and how to coach others in an era of post-pandemic stress. Connect with Mike Tooley at https://www.upstreamprinciples.com/ Connect with Greg Nettle and Stadia at https://stadia.org

On this special episode of the Church Planting Podcast, Greg interviews his wife, Julie Nettle. Julie and Greg share their own experience, being in ministry as husband and wife: the joy of serving together, the lessons learned, and the challenges to overcome.  Connect with Greg and Stadia at stadia.org

Patrick O'Connell, Global Director of NewThing (newthing.org), sits down with Greg Nettle (stadia.org) to talk about church multiplication, what he's seeing, and what he finds exciting about church multiplication in the U.S. and around the world. Show Notes  

Chuck Mingo (undivided.us) joins Greg Nettle (stadia.org) to talk about the Five Windows of Spiritual Growth, focusing in on the "fifth window," spiritual growth through cross-cultural relationships. Learn how to grow spiritually and as a leader through this in-depth conversation.   Show Notes https://stadiachurchplanting.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/TCPP_Chuck-Mingo_Podcast-Transcript-1.pdf

On this episode, Ben Cachiaras (Lead Pastor, Mountain Christian Church) joins Greg to talk about the importance of developing leaders and the nuts and bolts of leadership development. Connect with Ben: https://mountaincc.org Connect with Greg and Stadia: https://stadia.org Read this Episode's Transcript: https://stadiachurchplanting.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/TCPP_Ben-Cachiaras.pdf    

Greg talks with Kasey Dillon. Kasey and her husband Wes are co-leaders of Four Rivers Church in Durham, New Hampshire. Kasey shares how their church played a vital role in welcoming refugees from Afghanistan and Ukraine, and how "loving those on the margins" enables them to make a global impact in their local community.  Connect with Kasey: https://www.4riverschurch.org/ https://www.welcomenst.org/ Connect with Greg:  https://stadia.org Show notes:  https://stadia.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Kasey-Dillon_Podcast-Transcript.pdf  

On this episode of the Church Planting Podcast, Greg talks with Chip Freed. Chip is the Chief Missional Strategist and Teaching Pastor at Garfield Memorial Church in Cleveland, Ohio. Garfield Memorial transitioned from a 200-person homogeneous church upon Chip's arrival in 2004 to a 1200-person multiethnic church in two Cleveland campuses where no one ethnic group comprises more than 52% of the congregation.  Chip also serves as the Director of Cohorts for Mosaix, and as Director of the Mosaix House of Studies at United Theological Seminary. Prior to entering the ministry, Chip was a CEO in the corporate community, serving as President and General Manager of Mahoning Municipal Products, Inc. Connect with Chip: https://twitter.com/ChipFreed chip@garfieldchurch.org https://www.mosaix.info Connect with Greg https://stadia.org  

Tim and Sharon O'Neill join Greg on today's podcast. Sharon and Tim are church planters and senior pastors at Tailrace Community Church in Tasmania, Australia. Tim is president of the movement of churches Tailrace belongs to called the Acts 2 Alliance and he leads Exponential Australia, accelerating healthy churches.    Connect with Tim and Sharon https://a2a.org.au/ https://exponential.org.au/ Connect with Greg and Stadia https://stadia.org Read the Transcript from this episode HERE.  

On this episode of The Church Planting Podcast, Greg talks with Dr. David Anderson. Dr. Anderson is the founder and president of Gracism Global, and he's known as one of the world's leading authorities on bridging the deep divides of race, faith, culture, and wealth. Dr. Anderson is a church planter and advocate for multiplication. He's the leader of a congregation of more than ten thousand people in weekly attendance, and he's the voice in the nation's capital posting the daily radio talk show RealTalk with Dr. David Anderson. Connect with Dr. David Anderson https://andersonspeaks.com/ https://wava.com/radioshow/real-talk-with-dr-david-anderson https://gracismglobal.com/  Connect with Greg Nettle and Stadia  https://stadia.org  

On this week's episode of The Church Planting Podcast, Greg talks to Jeff Reed about the current state and future possibilities of digital church planting and helping physical churches to develop an effective digital strategy. Jeff is founder of THECHURCH.DIGITAL and the DigitalChurch.Network. He helps churches and individuals with digital discipleship, digital mission, and starting multiplying digital churches.  Jeff also champions Digital and Metaverse Church development with Leadership Network, and works closely with Exponential, Media Impact International, He Gets Us GLOO, and others. He has written two books: VR & The Metaverse Church and Sharing Jesus Online. Connect with Jeff Reed: https://thechurch.digital/ Connect with Greg Nettle: https://www.stadia.org  

On this episode, Greg talks with Noemi Chavez. Noemi and her husband, Joshua, are the Lead Pastors at Revive Church a multi-site church in the greater Los Angeles area. She is an international conference speaker and is the co-founder of Brave Global, a movement which focuses on equipping the local church to connect with the most vulnerable girls, including girls that are on probation and in the foster care system. Noemi is committed to raising leaders and bridging generations to serve the future of the church and their communities. Read the Podcast Transcript Here. Follow Noemi on Instagram @noemichavezlbc

Greg talks with Craig Whitney about a new digital platform just announced by Stadia that will accelerate the start and multiplication of new churches around the world. Connect with Stadia: https://www.stadiachurchplanting.org Find out more about kipos: https://www.kipos.org Read the Transcript for this Episode    

Greg sits down with Stadia's first president, Marcus Bigelow, to talk about the modern church planting movement of the last 30 years, Stadia's origin story, the faithfulness of God as Stadia celebrates its 20th anniversary, and what God could bring about over the next decade. Connect with Stadia: https://www.stadiachurchplanting.org About Marcus Bigelow: Marcus Bigelow has a family heritage of church planting. His great uncle, grandfather, father, brother, and sister all helped start new churches. In 1984, Marcus and his wife, Jan, started Dublin Christian Church in Dublin, CA. He remained their until called in 1996 to help lead a church planting organization that became Stadia. Marcus led the organization from a small regional organization in 7 years to a national organization, and ultimately to an international organization. This led to great experiences in managed growth, building scalable systems, and leading a de-centralized company. In 2011, Marcus turned his attention to helping high-impact business leaders maximize their lives, businesses and Kingdom impact. He is committed to helping Christian leaders find and leverage God's call through their businesses. He now leads two Convene Teams in the Sacramento area. Marcus's passion is to help leaders multiply their effectiveness for Kingdom legacy impact and leverage their leadership. Marcus has been married to Jan for 51 years. They have three married daughters and eight grandchildren, all of whom love Jesus.  

On today's episode, Greg talks to Warren Bird. Warren serves as the Senior Vice President of Research and Equipping with the ECFA (Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability), and he's widely known throughout the United States as one of the leaders when it comes to research, writing, and his knowledge of of what it takes to see churches thrive, grow, and multiply.   Warren shares insights and practical takeaways from a recent study he authored for the ECFA, "The New Faces of Church Planting and Multisiting Insights from Over 2,700 Church Planters and Campus Pastors"   Connect with Greg Nettle and Stadia https://www.stadiachurchplanting.org/thechurchplantingpodcast https://www.gregnettle.com   Connect with Warren Bird (and access the study mentioned in this episode) www.warrenbird.com www.ChurchEXCEL.org (for free resources) www.ECFA.org/surveys (for the “New Faces of Church Planting” reports.)

On today's episode, Greg talks to Daniel Escobar about multiplying and training disciples, Latino culture, and the need to learn from each other. Daniel Escobar was born and raised in Baja California, Mexico. Daniel relocated to Virginia in 2002, two years after getting married. He first planted Iglesia La Red in Williamsburg, Virginia in 2005. Seven years later he and his family moved to Washington DC to plant the second church in 2015. In 2017, he and his wife founded La Red Network, which is a church planting network in the US and Latin America that he is the director of.  This is now his main focus in ministry. La Red Network has taken him many places around the world and allowed him to live in Mexico and Argentina. He is also a business owner in different industries in the private and government sectors.  Read the Podcast Transcript Here Connect with Daniel larednetwork.org https://www.facebook.com/larednetwork https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/la-red-podcast/id1568755174 Connect with Greg https://www.stadiachurchplanting.org/thechurchplantingpodcast https://www.gregnettle.com  

On today's episode, Greg talks to Rob Wegner. Rob is the leader of a church movement in Kansas City called the KC Underground. It's a rapidly multiplying micro church movement. Get ready to learn a lot from Rob on today's episode. Connect with Rob and check out the resources mentioned in today's episode here: https://www.kcunderground.org/resources Connect with Greg: stadiachurchplanting.org/thechurchplantingpodcast gregnettle.com