In this interview, Tara Beth Leach shares her journey as a senior pastor, her calling to ministry, and the unique challenges she encountered. After an 11-year tenure at other churches, she returned to Good Shepherd, where she implemented a significant cultural shift to address unhealthy staff dynamics. Leach emphasizes the importance of casting a hopeful vision, maintaining accountability, and balancing work with personal restoration through hobbies and family support. Welcome to Episode 120 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

"Do I love being a pastor, or do I need to be a pastor? Once I figured out what I wanted to do and what I could let go of, that helped free me up." Meet Bryan Wilkerson, Pastor Emeritus at Grace Chapel. Today, Bryan reflects on his 40-year ministry career, including his 24 years as lead pastor of Grace Chapel in the Boston area. He discusses the leadership transition process, the importance of finishing well, and how his personal identity evolved as he prepared for retirement. The conversation also touches on Bryan’s strategies for staying involved in ministry while stepping back from leadership. Welcome to Episode 119 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

In this episode, Sean engages with David and Mike, co-lead pastors at McLean Bible Church, as they share their experiences of transitioning into a unique shared leadership model. David reflects on how Mike’s leadership was essential to the church’s growth, prompting him to take a step back to focus more on global missions. Mike, in turn, reflects on the importance of cultivating a personal relationship with God, especially for ministry leaders. Together, they explore the challenges and benefits of co-leading and how God's guidance has shaped their journey. Welcome to Episode 118 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

“High trust makes high performance possible. It’s a soft skill, but it's foundational to building healthy teams, especially in ministry where trust is an even higher currency.” Meet Lance Witt, founder of REPLENISH ministries. In today’s episode, Lance shares insights on balancing health and high performance within ministry leadership. He also explains the importance of avoiding burnout, setting strategic priorities, and how church leaders can create space to think and focus on what truly matters. Lance shares his journey from workaholism to a more balanced approach and explores how leaders can effectively combine hard work with healthy rhythms. Welcome to Episode 117 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

“Vulnerability with those closest to you can provide clarity and healing in ways you don’t expect.” Meet Zac Stephens, lead pastor of Faith Promise Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. In today’s episode, Zac shares his unique journey from growing up as a pastor’s kid to stepping into the role of lead pastor, highlighting the integrity of his parents and how they prepared him for ministry rather than shielding him from its challenges. Zac talks about the weight of leadership that comes with senior roles and the unexpected personal responsibility that hit him during his first 90 days as lead pastor. In addition, Zac shares practical insights into the mental strategies he’s adopted and how the support system around him played a crucial role in his transformation. Welcome to Episode 116 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

Andy Wood shares insights two years into his journey as the Lead Pastor at Saddleback Church, highlighting the challenges and progress made during this leadership transition. We’re hitting topics like organizational change, leadership dynamics, and the complexities of stepping into a long-established ministry. Welcome to Episode 115 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

In this episode of Leaders in Living Rooms, host Sean Morgan sits down with Ben Pilgreen, the lead pastor of Epic Church in San Francisco, to explore the nuances of leadership in different church seasons. From the early days of church planting to the current challenges of leading an established congregation, Ben shares his journey, insights, and the evolution of his leadership style. He also touches on the personal transitions happening in his life as his children grow older, paralleling the shifts in his leadership role at the church. Welcome to Episode 114 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

Today, Kenton Beshore, former Senior Pastor of Mariners Church, pinpoints the challenges and essential skills required for effective ministry, especially during difficult times. He emphasizes the importance of character in "severe" moments and gives us a gauge on ministry skill sets from church planters, transitions leaders, to executive pastors! Welcome to Episode 113 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

In this episode, Kenton and Laurie Beshore share their invaluable insights on maintaining a healthy balance between ministry and family life. Laurie highlights the "wear and tear" that ministry can have on marriages and families and offers practical tips during the differentiation stage of your kids’ lives. Discover what questions Laurie would ask a young leader after her 40 years in ministry. Welcome to Episode 112 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

Today, we welcome Brian Tome, senior pastor of Crossroads Church, for an engaging discussion on the crucial topic of leadership development within the church. Don’t miss insights into the biblical basis for leadership development, practical steps for nurturing future leaders, and the long-term benefits of investing in the next generation. Brian Tome shares his unique perspective on why leadership development is not only vital but also a biblical mandate. Welcome to Episode 111 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

Clarity, trust, and connection. These are the building blocks of a healthy team culture. Meet Jenni Catron, a leadership coach, author, and speaker passionate about cultivating healthy leaders to lead thriving organizations. In today’s episode, you’ll learn about striking a balance between shouldering the responsibility, but not all the weight, of course-correcting a culture toward healthy. Welcome to Episode 110 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

“Church growth isn’t what’s propelling us forward—it’s the Great Commission.” Meet Daniel Im, pastor, Bible teacher, writer, and podcast host with a passion for the local church. In this episode, Sean and Daniel explore the delicate balance between pastoral care and visionary leadership, emphasizing the importance of maintaining both to avoid becoming stagnant. Daniel shares his insights on the evolving dynamics of discipleship and evangelism, arguing for a reliance on the Holy Spirit's work in sparking interest in the things of God. Welcome to Episode 109 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

Your systems of decision-making have the potential to bring greater clarity to who you are and how you do things. Today, Sean Morgan discusses how level-five leaders frame each decision with a silver-bullet technique, and how it can lead toward momentum every time. Welcome to Episode 108 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan. Welcome to Episode 108 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

Today’s episode is all about the complexities of life after ministry, exploring how the roles we inhabit can become intertwined with our identities. John discusses the importance of separating one's identity from his or her role, the challenges faced in transitioning from local church ministry, and the significance of cultivating deep and meaningful relationships. John shares insights from his own journey, emphasizing the necessity of vulnerability, intentionality, and daily obedience in serving God joyfully. Welcome to episode 107 of the Leaders in Living Rooms podcast, with Sean Morgan.

Navigating change in churches requires courage, vision, and a willingness to adapt. By fostering a culture of adaptability, celebrating wins, and grounding decisions in biblical principles, churches can embrace momentum for growth and impact. As leaders prioritize clarity, focus, and inclusivity, they pave the way for a thriving future rooted in faith and resilience. Welcome to episode 106 of the Leaders in Living Rooms podcast, with Sean Morgan.

In this episode, we hear the inspiring journey of Pastor Jeremiah Ramer, the lead pastor of Crossroads Church located between Odessa and Midland, West Texas. From a cross-country move with unexpected transitions to the challenges of stepping into leadership that would soon endure a church split, Jeremiah shares his remarkable experiences and the incredible growth his church has seen in recent years. Welcome to episode 105 of the Leaders in Living Rooms podcast, with Sean Morgan.

“The smartest leaders get the most help.” Meet Ray Johnston, Senior Pastor of Bayside Church. In today’s episode, Johnston explains the surprising secret to building momentum－and it all begins with encouragement. When we understand the types of support needed, the gaps between our “challenge level” and our “support level,” and the most effective way to share vision, we’re on our way to momentum in the church.  Welcome to episode 104 of the Leaders in Living Rooms podcast, with Sean Morgan. 

Dr. Joel Muddamalle, Director of Theology and Research at Proverbs 31 Ministries, joins us on today’s episode of the Leaders in Living Rooms podcast. Addressing the topics of pride and humility, Dr. Joel urges a theological shift in our view of success. He outlines three fundamental steps for cultivating the necessary humility as a leader: recognition, reflection, and community. Listen to today’s episode for practical advice on honest accountability and transparency in your leadership.

Les McKeown, author of "Predictable Success," discusses his insights into leadership and organizational success. Overall, McKeown's insights highlight the importance of pattern recognition, self-awareness, and honesty in effective leadership and organizational success.

“You will grow only to the threshold of your pain.” Meet Sam Chand, author and leadership consultant who serves leaders worldwide as they seek personal and organizational growth. Sam expands on the topic of leadership pain in today’s episode. He asks pastors two key questions when discerning their leadership health. And while there is no such thing as “balance” in ministry, listen to Sam’s wisdom in navigating health amid “ministry spurts.” Welcome to Episode 101 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

“Trust comes from relationships.” Today, you’ll be hearing a familiar voice from the podcast. We’re flipping the script on episode 100, and Sean Morgan is interviewed today by Josh Surratt, Lead Pastor at Seacoast Church. How can we learn intentional leadership development from the military? What makes it easier to follow a lead pastor and make space for high-level leaders on your team? Listen in for Sean’s perspective and wisdom for these questions. Welcome to Episode 100 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

“Sometimes God says, ‘That was a nice idea, but it wasn’t a divine vision.’” Meet Dr. Wayne Cordeiro, founding pastor of the New Hope International Ministry. With inspiring insight into the nuances and necessities of pivoting as leaders, Pastor Wayne gives helpful cues to build resiliency in a way that healthily impacts your church. Welcome to Episode 099 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

“Sometimes, you have the grace to receive a vision but not the grace to communicate it.” Meet Chris Fletcher, Lead Pastor of Manna Church in Fayetteville/Ft. Liberty. Today, we get to hear Chris’ insights on leadership transition. We’ll learn about the wisdom of ambiguity in the beginning, what changes with money and leaders as you transition, and the necessity of peer mentorship. Welcome to Episode 098 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

“There are more people open to the Gospel than ever before.” Meet Sean Morgan, host of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast and Founder of The Ascent Leader. Today’s episode offers eight church trends all pastors should be aware of as we enter 2024. Sean’s insight not only points to these specific trends but also to what they mean for your church and your leadership. How do we lead with courage as we see fertile soil trend upward? Welcome to Episode 097 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

“If you don’t have a healthy elder board in a church, you might as well not have an elder board.” Meet Darryl, Justin, and Jonathan, three of the four Flatirons Elders. In a special group interview, today’s episode gives insight into what honesty and integrity look like when played out on a healthy board. Find out why a healthy team does not mean “smooth sailing.” Welcome to Episode 096 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

“Our enemy hates that we’re taking days of rest.” Meet Brady Boyd, Senior Pastor of New Life Church. Today’s episode is a reminder of the crucial ways Sabbath rest refuels a pastor’s soul. On a weekly basis, pastors carry an emotional and often traumatic weight as they shepherd their congregations. Today, Pastor Brady encourages all leaders to incorporate healthy rhythms that will make space for pastors to be able to sustain a ministry for the long haul. Welcome to Episode 095 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

“The church goes upward in age and inward in focus naturally…It’s only intentionally that the church goes downward in age and outward in focus.” Meet Stephen Foster, leader of St Aldates Church in Oxford and advisor to Alpha. Stephen brings a refreshing reminder of the need for churches to embrace a vision that moves the demographic downward in age while outward in focus － all while embracing multiple generations in church culture. Listen for insights in today’s episode on how to best engage what Stephen describes as a pre-Christian context and why that is so exciting for the Church! Welcome to Episode 094 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

“You can’t lead people or take them anywhere until they trust you.” Meet Archie Coates, Vicar of Holy Trinity Brompton. In a conversation about transitioning into a lead pastor role, Archie gives personal insights from his recent transition at HTB. He brings a healthy mix of humility and disruption to a seasoned church. Learn about the difference between loving a church you “birthed” versus a church you “adopted” in today’s episode. Archie’s perspective and wisdom will give you practical concepts to aid either side of pastoral transitions. Welcome to Episode 093 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

“The only way to plant a church is through evangelism.” Meet Nicky Gumbel, pioneer of the Alpha course and former vicar of Holy Trinity Brompton (HTB) in London. Nicky’s enthusiasm for a better focus in church evangelism is life-giving and inspiring. He meets the challenges of today’s church with a sense of intentionality and strategy that will encourage you and motivate change. Welcome to Episode 092 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

“Justice and love are two halves of the same coin.” Meet N.T. Wright, the former Bishop of Durham, theologian, author, and Senior Research Fellow at Wycliffe Hall, Oxford. Today, we are tackling current events in Israel and Gaza with a renewed perspective of lament. N.T. Wright brings a depth of wisdom that not only expands on our understanding of biblical text, but also informs us of how we are to operate today in the church. Welcome to Episode 091 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

“It’s a narcissistic leader who passes the baton and then hopes that the church diminishes or fails.” Meet Dave Stone, former lead pastor at Southeast Christian Church. Sharing from personal experiences, Dave gives us insight into healthy leadership transitions, including how to be the biggest champion for your successor, how to carry an interim pastor role, and how to gauge the health of your leadership. Welcome to Episode 090 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

“To go too long, to go too far…big mistake.” Meet Dan Reiland, former Executive Pastor at 12Stone® Church in Lawrenceville, Georgia. Dan’s example of transitioning as an outgoing pastor is one every pastor should take note of. With practical metrics on what successful transition looks like afterward, spiritual insights for staying in tune with God’s voice, and a heart for serving the next generation, today’s episode is a helpful one for what it looks like to transition healthily in the church. Welcome to Episode 089 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

“I have a radical ownership of everything I’m doing…By God’s grace, I’m waking up every day making a choice to lead God’s church.” Meet Jared Herd, Senior Pastor at The Church at Rancho Bernardo. Jared gives us a helpful look at his experience with a tough transition from a Co-Pastoring model. Listen in for practical wisdom on healthy Boards and the grit of leadership. Welcome to Episode 088 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

“If you do nothing, the devil braids the church’s success and the health of your soul together, and he makes you think it’s the same thing.” Meet Julian Lowe, Lead Pastor at Oasis LA. In today’s episode, we hear a vulnerable and insightful look at what succession in leadership looked like for Julian. With honesty and transparency, we hear about challenges of humility, how gratitude can accompany obedience, and distinguishing your personal relationship with Jesus from the church you lead. Welcome to Episode 087 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

“If I have power, especially in ministry, it’s because it is a gift. And I’m accountable not in my audience, I’m accountable to the God of the universe who has laid down His life for the sake of the world.” Meet Mark Labberton, former Fuller Seminary President, author, and host of Fuller Studio’s Conversing podcast. Join us for an engaging conversation on what it means to lay down power. Mark gives insight on the concept of co-leadership and healthy power dynamics as he challenges us to pursue deeper discipleship above all else as the vision for church growth. Welcome to Episode 086 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

“There is a sacrifice to ministry that scars you…that is part of the job.” Meet Mark Clark, one of the Senior Pastors at Bayside Church in Sacramento, California. In today’s episode, Mark shares his personal experience of entering a role as Senior Pastor after founding Village Church, a multi-site church with locations in multiple cities across Canada. You’ll get a glimpse into his perspective on the evolution of pastoral roles, the secret sauce to keeping good leaders, and the importance of humility and zeal as a pastor. Welcome to Episode 085 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

“Get clear on your calling.” Meet Ben Snyder, Lead Pastor at Cedar Creek Church in Ohio. Ben talks with us about his personal experience in a quick transition season. He gives helpful advice, now in hindsight, glimpses into the challenges he faced, and key reminders for leaders entering a season of new leadership styles. Welcome to Episode 084 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

“God loves your church more than you do…Invite Him into the discussion.” Meet Steve and Dana Clifford, former pastors at Westgate Church in San Jose, California. Without underestimating the hard work and the time it takes to healthily transition from one pastor to another, Steve and Dana give insight into how their successful transition has contributed to healthy new seasons in their lives and their church. Learn about the timing and prep it took to get there in today’s episode. Welcome to Episode 083 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

“Pastors tend to overestimate the value of vision and underestimate the value of strategy.” Meet Thom S. Rainer, and his son, Sam Rainer. With much experience in church consulting and transition, Thom and Sam are CEO and President (respectively) of Church Answers, an organization providing resources for pastors experiencing the ups and downs of ministry. Today’s podcast gives us a glimpse into practical roles an interim pastor should be filling as well as encouragement for all churches to revive their passion for evangelism and reach the lost. It’s as simple as Sam explains it, “Evangelism will never die in your church if you do it.” Welcome to Episode 082 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

“Do what is required to finish well.” Sean Morgan is sharing with us today the keys to a successful transition in ministry leadership. If we’re being honest, transition in ministry is not often the beautiful baton hand-off we desire it to be. There are challenges and intricacies that can prevent churches from experiencing the ideal "smooth transition." Today’s episode offers insight behind the “why” of common challenges as well as guardrails for a better path forward. Welcome to Episode 081 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

“One of the best gifts we can give our churches is a healthy relationship with God and a healthy marriage.” Meet Jud and Lori Wilhite. As leaders in ministry, this couple gives us a healthy look at what pursuing God looks like in the context of church ministry and marriage. In the midst of negativity, our own idols of effectiveness, and the dangers of comparison, Jud and Lori bring us back to the basics of our faith…the most effective practices we often neglect.  Welcome to Episode 080 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

“The church is God’s vehicle to get the answer to people’s longings in their heart to them, and if people have been without a church long enough, then I know their spirit is going to be hungry.” Meet Darren Youngstrom, Lead Pastor at New Vintage Church in Santa Rosa. Today’s conversation brings an authentic glimpse into the transition role of a lead pastor. Darren is honest and vulnerable about his trials and hardships. But he also sheds light on the many ways God is clearly on the move in the midst of it all. Welcome to Episode 079 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

“My advice to an executive pastor is: The output from your voice needs to be more questions than answers.” Meet Rich Birch, lead coach of the Church Growth Incubator, a community of churches actively working to grow through closely learning from the fastest-growing churches and applying those lessons to their churches. Today, we get to benefit from Rich’s stories, experience, and advice to Executive Pastors navigating the reality of their roles in relationship to Lead Pastors. These insights will broaden your perspective from a trusted leader who has walked in the shoes of executive leadership. Welcome to Episode 078 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

“God uses transition to connect us more deeply to the people around us.” Meet Clay Scroggins, author of the best-selling books How to Lead When You’re Not in Charge, How to Lead in a World of Distraction, and The Aspiring Leader’s Guide to the Future. In today’s episode, Clay gives a deep, personal look at what transitioning from a lead pastor role to an entrepreneurial, self-employed role has looked like for him. He gives a ton of perspective and insight into what his journey has been, leaving us with thoughtful questions to ask and actionable items to tackle next when we face a season of transition. Welcome to Episode 077 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

“Connection is what brings production.” Meet Kyle Idleman, Lead Pastor of Southeast Christian Church in Louisville, Kentucky. Kyle sits down with Sean Morgan to talk through his pastoral journey from a lonely church planter to now leading one of the largest churches in America. Through key voices in his life, welcoming him in, speaking wisdom into his role, and placing helpful boundaries around pastoral input and output, Kyle has great wisdom to share with us in regard to church leadership. Join us for an episode full of vulnerability, real stories from his experiences, and even a sneak peek at Kyle’s latest book! Welcome to Episode 076 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

“My life has been a story of transition… I’m used to having to rely on the Lord and ask for His wisdom, guidance, and understanding.” Meet Sam Acho, a nine year NFL Veteran, ESPN Football Analyst, Humanitarian, and Author. Sam sits down with Sean to talk through each of the transitions in his life and what changed along the way. Through all of them, what remained the same was his commitment to Christ. Listen in on this episode as Sam shares not only the details of these transitions, but the imperative methods he’s discovered to let God lead the way. Welcome to Episode 075 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

“Pastors moving into the Lead Pastor role need to ask, “What created this vacancy that God has called me to fill? People mistakenly assume that succession and retirement are synonyms. They’re not.”” Meet William Vanderbloemen, CEO & Founder of Vanderbloemen, an executive search firm. In this episode, William and Sean really lean in to combine their pre and post-transition experience, unpacking the top lessons from coaching churches through pastoral transition. William shares invaluable insight from his work in over 3,000 church successions and key advice for both the outgoing and incoming leader. Welcome to Episode 074 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

“It wasn’t until maybe four years into me leading the church that I really felt like, “Okay, now I have a good sense as to what it means to lead the congregation from here to there from a vision perspective.” Meet Rich Villodas, lead pastor of New Life Fellowship, a large multiracial church in Elmhurst, Queens. In this episode, Rich shares his own leadership transition story, as he was called to lead New Life at 28 years old, succeeding the great Pete Scazzero. He gives listeners an inside look at the intimate details of his transition—both the things that went well and the areas that were most challenging for him as a young leader. This is an episode packed with wisdom and honesty on the topic of pastoral succession, you won’t want to miss it. Welcome to Episode 073 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.