Brentwood Baptist Leadership Podcast: Equipping the Whole Church Staff for Gospel Impact

Every church wants to be faithful to where God has placed them. But sometimes, faithfulness looks like partnership.In this episode of the Brentwood Baptist Leadership Podcast, Brian Coates and Aaron Bryant talk through when church mergers actually make sense, and when they don’t. This is not about growth for growth’s sake. It’s about discerning where God is at work and how churches can come alongside one another for greater kingdom impact.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why “merger” isn’t the best starting point—and what posture matters moreHow to discern if partnership is necessary or if support is enoughWhat healthy churches look for before stepping into a mergerWhy humility is essential on both sides of the conversationHow to lead your congregation through uncertainty and changeThe role of prayer and communication in building unityThe difference between vision and strategy—and why it mattersMeet the GuestsBrian Coates, Senior Executive Pastor at Brentwood Baptist ChurchAaron Bryant, Campus and Teaching Pastor at The Church at Avenue South and North Region Lead PastorRegister for the Elevate ConferenceThis episode is part of our March focus on worship ministry, leading up to Elevate Church Conference on September 21–22, 2026. Learn more and register at elevatechurchconference.com.

Register Now for the Elevate Conference | September 9elevatechurchconference.comOn this episode of the Brentwood Baptist Leadership Podcast, Dillon Sherlock is joined by Mallory, Senior Graphic Designer at Brentwood Baptist Church, to talk about what church branding really means.This conversation goes beyond logos and colors. It explores how clarity around mission shapes visuals, messaging, photography, sermon series design, and even staff alignment. From the three-question framework to the 80/20 rule, Dillon and Mallory share practical tools that help churches create unity without stifling creativity.If your team has ever wrestled with consistency, campus personality, or competing design preferences, this episode will give you a clear place to start.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:Why brand is about clarity, not controlThe three-question framework that guides every major campaignHow unified design builds trust across campusesWhat the 80/20 rule means for church creativityHow to reduce conflict by anchoring decisions in missionFirst steps smaller churches can take to build brand alignmentThe Three-Question FrameworkThe 80/20 Rule for Brand Consistencyelevatechurchconference.com Meet the GuestDillon Sherlock – Associate Communications Director at Brentwood Baptist ChurchMallory Nall – Senior Graphic Designer at Brentwood Baptist ChurchResources MentionedRegister for the Elevate ConferenceThis episode is part of our ongoing conversations leading up to Elevate: A Conference for the Whole Church Staff. Join us as we equip teams with practical tools to advance their mission—together.Learn more at elevatechurchconference.com

The “giving moment” isn’t a throwaway transition—it’s a weekly chance to disciple your church. In this episode, Madi Wuebben talks with Stewardship Minister Ken Schafer and Pastor David Hannah about planning the moment, delivering it with excellence, and keeping its purpose centered on spiritual formation. You’ll learn how to invite first-time givers, encourage consistency, avoid announcement-only traps, and share stories that form hearts (not just fund budgets). Perfect for worship leaders, pastors, and hosts who want to connect generosity directly to God’s mission.

In this episode, Jay Strother and Aaron Bryant unpack the impact of preaching through the entire Bible in one year across all nine campuses of Brentwood Baptist. From planning and unifying the teaching team to watching spiritual maturity take root in the congregation, they share lessons learned, powerful moments, and encouragement for any church leader considering a similar journey.

Hiring the right people for your church staff is about more than filling a role—it’s about building a healthy, mission-driven team.In this episode of the Elevate Podcast, Darrel Girardier is joined by Michele Dyer and Bill Ferrell to unpack what church leaders need to know about hiring well. From red flags and personality assessments to interview tips and culture fit, this conversation offers practical guidance for anyone hiring in ministry.Whether you're building a new team or refining your process, you'll walk away with real tools for better church staff hiring.How to Hire the Right People for Your Church StaffWelcome to a brand-new episode of the Elevate Podcast! Today, we're diving into the art—and science—of hiring well for ministry teams. Host Darrel Girardier (Communications Director at Brentwood Baptist Church) is joined by staff culture shapers Michele Dyer and Bill Ferrell for a conversation that goes way beyond filling empty seats. Together, they unpack what it really means to find a “good fit”—balancing character, chemistry, calling, and competency to build healthy teams. DISC Profile – Personality assessment tool frequently referenced as an aid in hiring and team dynamicsMyers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) – Personality assessment tool used to evaluate candidates and team fitPLACE Ministry Assessment – Combines DISC, spiritual gifts, and passions for ministry placementStrengths Assessments – Various tools noted by Michelle Dyer for understanding team gifts and wiringEnneagram – Utilized as part of personality mapping (e.g., “Enneagram 7”)Working Genius – Team productivity and strengths assessment mentioned for hiring insightGary Chapman’s “Animals” Personality Tool – A simplified, animal-themed personality toolChristian Coaching Program (Brentwood Baptist/ICF) – Certification program for Christian coachingElevate Conference – Annual ministry leadership event at Brentwood Baptist Church (elevatechurchconference.com)Jay’s Leadership Summit – A reference point for organizational vision and teaching at Brentwood Baptist Listen in as they share personal stories and practical insights from their years of ministry staff experience. You’ll hear why personality assessments matter, how to use them wisely, and why understanding both team and organizational culture is crucial. The episode is loaded with candid advice on red flags to watch for, how to weigh hard skills versus soft skills, and the kinds of interview questions that really make a difference. Whether you're leading a team, hiring your first staff member, or just want your church to flourish, this episode will equip you with actionable tools and wisdom from leaders who’ve been there.Ready to level up your hiring process? Let's get started!Episode Guests:Darrel Girardier: Communications DirectorMichele Dyer: Connection MinisterBill Ferrell: Executive Pastor for Central SupportTimestamps:00:00 "Elevate Podcast: Building a Ministry Team"06:19 Hiring for Chemistry Fit07:52 Assessing Team Fit: Strategies11:23 "Encouraging Truth in Leadership"15:33 Hiring: Balancing Skills and Roles19:30 Interview Question Strategies22:27 Prioritizing Organizational Culture25:47 Learning from Predecessors26:52 Leadership Self-Reflection and Team Growth30:47 Hiring for Church Passion33:01 Committed Candidate Embraces Church VisionResources Mentioned:

Do you want more volunteers—or better ones? Stephanie Prince: Connection Minister, The Church at Station HillTodd Bishop: Executive Pastor, North Region, Brentwood BaptistAdam Dye: Production Director, Brentwood BaptistEphesians 4:11–13 – Equipping the saints for the work of ministry1 Peter 4:10–11 – Using our gifts to serve one another In this episode, Stephanie Prince is joined by Todd Bishop and Adam Dye to explore what it takes to build, equip, and care for a healthy volunteer team. They dive into the practical side of recruiting, training, and sustaining volunteers across different ministries—from tech to guest services to parking—and what it really looks like to foster a culture of ownership and growth.You’ll learn how to spot the right people, develop a flexible onboarding process, and create moments for care and discipleship in the middle of a fast-paced ministry calendar.Whether you’re leading in a small church or a multi-campus context, this episode will help you shift from filling roles to forming leaders.Episode Guests:Timestamps: 00:00 – Why volunteers matter in every ministry02:30 – What to look for in a great volunteer06:00 – How to spot leaders through the membership process08:30 – Why you should always be recruiting10:00 – The problem with high skill, low character11:30 – Onboarding tips that actually work14:00 – Training volunteers through shadowing17:00 – Giving volunteers ownership and feedback20:00 – Learning to delegate and let go22:00 – Equipping the saints vs. doing it all yourself23:30 – Helping volunteers grow spiritually26:00 – How to care for your team32:00 – Final thoughts: Presence over performanceResources Mentioned:Elevate Church ConferenceJoin us at Brentwood Baptist in Nashville, TN for a one-day event designed to equip your entire ministry team. You’ll hear from seasoned leaders, attend practical workshops, and leave with real tools for your church’s next season.👉 Register now at elevatechurchconference.com

Is your team burned out by doing ministry for people instead of with people? Hunter Melton: Campus & Teaching Pastor, The Church at WoodbineJohn Joseph: Campus & Teaching Pastor, The Church at Station HillGarrett Gregory: Care & Campus Pastor, Brentwood Baptist Valley of Vision (Puritan Prayers)The Bruised Reed by Richard SibbesThe Trellis and the Vine by Colin Marshall & Tony PayneCareLife (Brentwood Baptist’s care case system)Deuteronomy 29:291 Peter 5Psalm 23Mark 1: Jesus’ rhythm of abiding and ministry In this episode, Hunter Melton sits down with pastors John Joseph and Garrett Gregory to talk about one of the most sacred, often unseen parts of ministry—shepherding. They unpack what it really means to care for souls, build sustainable systems of care, and walk with people through grief and growth.From navigating hospital visits to avoiding ministry burnout, this episode offers honest stories, biblical grounding, and practical rhythms that help pastors stay rooted in Christ while leading others.If you're a ministry leader who’s tired, stretched, or asking how to care for your people without losing yourself, this conversation is for you.Episode Guests:Timestamps:00:00 – Why shepherding matters more than ever03:30 – What God is doing at each campus09:00 – What does it really mean to shepherd people?15:00 – Systems vs. single-mindedness in pastoral care21:30 – Building teams that multiply care27:00 – When to delegate and when to step in35:00 – How to walk with people through suffering45:00 – What not to say in a crisis50:00 – Helping your staff avoid burnout56:00 – Why pastors need small groups too1:02:00 – Anchoring your soul in Christ while leading others1:08:00 – Final encouragements for weary leadersResources Mentioned:Elevate Church Conference | September 9, 2025Join us for the Elevate Church Conference at Brentwood Baptist in Nashville, TN. Learn from seasoned church leaders, grow your ministry team, and gain practical tools for your church’s next chapter. Register now at elevatechurchconference.com

Can a sermon be both theologically rich and crystal clear? Brandon Abbott: Host, Groups Minister at Brentwood BaptistJay Strother: Senior Pastor, Brentwood Baptist ChurchBrandon Hayes: Campus Pastor, Harpeth Heights 00:00 – Why this conversation matters03:00 – Learning your people and their needs06:45 – “Exegete the text—and the congregation”10:00 – Gospel clarity in every sermon16:30 – Tips for sermon prep that starts with Scripture23:00 – The power of personal connection in preaching28:45 – When you go too deep (or too light)34:30 – Finding the right balance of illustration and depth40:15 – Advice for newer preachers and young pastors47:00 – Preaching to a diverse congregation53:30 – The bell curve of biblical literacy59:00 – Preaching that creates hunger—not just heat In this episode, Elevate host Brandon Abbott sits down with Senior Pastor Jay Strother and Harpeth Heights Campus Pastor Brandon Hayes to explore one of the most common tensions in preaching: depth vs. accessibility.Whether you're teaching brand-new believers, seasoned saints, or everyone in between, this episode is packed with real stories, practical tools, and a reminder of why we preach in the first place—to engage the whole person with the whole gospel of Jesus Christ, anywhere, anytime, with anybody.From sermon prep tips to common mistakes young pastors make, you’ll walk away with new clarity and encouragement for crafting messages that actually land—and lead to life change.Episode Guests:Timestamps:Elevate Conference | September 9, 2025Looking to sharpen your preaching or grow as a church leader? Join us for the Elevate Conference on September 9, 2025,at Brentwood Baptist Church in Nashville, TN.This one-day event is designed for your whole church staff and includes dynamic keynotes, role-specific breakouts, and the chance to connect with ministry leaders from across the region.Register today at elevatechurchconference.com

Is your church ready to talk about leadership succession? Preaching in a Post-Truth World by Dr. Mike GlennEngage Church NetworkBrentwood Baptist Church In this episode, Elevate host Darrel Girardier sits down with Dr. Mike Glenn (Executive Director, Engaged Church Network and former Senior Pastor of Brentwood Baptist church) and Dr. Jay Strother (Senior Pastor, Brentwood Baptist) to share how their team approached one of the most delicate leadership changes in a church's life: the passing of the pastoral baton.They walk through what worked, what they’d do differently, and how to build a culture—and a process—that sets your church up for future faithfulness. Whether you're the outgoing pastor, the incoming leader, or someone supporting the transition, this honest conversation offers practical wisdom and encouragement.👉 Learn more & register for Elevate Church Conference at elevatechurchconference.comTimestamps:00:00 – Welcome and Brentwood’s unique multi-campus model03:35 – When Mike sensed it was time to transition10:24 – Jay’s journey from student ministry to senior pastor20:40 – Why healthy transitions start years in advance26:45 – How to identify and encourage future leaders34:22 – Building congregational trust with clear visuals41:10 – Behind the scenes of Brentwood’s transition process50:07 – Where to start if your church has no process58:30 – Why pastors need something to “go to” not just “leave”1:06:12 – Matching the new leader to the church’s DNA1:12:55 – Helping staff adjust to a new leadership cadence1:21:09 – What they’d both do differentlyResources Mentioned:Elevate Church Conference | September 9, 2025Join us for the Elevate Church Conference at Brentwood Baptist in Nashville, TN. Learn from seasoned church leaders, grow your ministry team, and gain practical tools for your church’s next chapter. Register now at elevatechurchconference.com

What if leading a team wasn’t a tension to manage—but a calling to steward? In this episode, Elevate host Bill Ferrell (Executive Pastor of Central Support) sits down with Brian Coates (Executive Pastor of Brentwood Baptist Church) to talk about one of the biggest challenges in church leadership: learning to lead both as a shepherd and a supervisor. From managing team chemistry to navigating difficult conversations, they share wisdom for pastors who want to care for people and call them to more.Whether you’re stepping into leadership for the first time or trying to balance your gifts with your growing responsibilities, this episode offers practical tools—and biblical perspective—for leading like Jesus.👉 Learn more & register for Elevate Church Conference at elevatechurchconference.comTimestamps00:00 – Shepherd vs. Supervisor: What’s the Difference? Why pastors struggle with the tension—and why both roles matter.03:00 – The Push and Pull of Leadership. How early mistakes in ministry can shape how we lead today.06:45 – Listening First, Leading Second. Why the first year in leadership should be focused on relationships.08:00 – Praying With Your Team. A simple habit that builds trust and earns the right to be heard.10:30 – Hiring for Chemistry. Why fit matters more than you think—and how to build a team that thrives.13:00 – Structure That Supports Ministry. How clear systems and accountability help keep your staff healthy.16:30 – Setting SMART Goals. How well-defined goals actually shepherd your team, not just manage them.18:00 – Tools to Develop Leaders. From scenarios to book studies, how to disciple your team into better leadership.23:00 – Mentorship Matters. Why learning from others outside your organization is key to long-term growth.26:00 – Giving Feedback with Clarity and Compassion. Mistakes pastors make in conflict—and how to speak the truth in love.29:00 – Weekly 1:1s. The underrated discipline that builds trust, accountability, and alignment.31:00 – Equipping Church Leaders of Every Size. Ideas for staff development, no matter your church's budget or context.35:00 – Play the Long Game. The power of patience, perspective, and pastoring for the next five years—not just the next five weeks.Resources MentionedThe E-Myth Revisited by Michael E. Gerber – A must-read on why good leaders can’t do it all themselves.Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni – Insights on building trust, managing conflict, and creating team cohesion.The Emotionally Healthy Leader by Pete Scazzero – How personal health fuels healthy leadership.Myers-Briggs, DISC, Enneagram – Personality assessments to help you understand your team dynamics.Five Love Languages (Gary Chapman) – Surprisingly useful for building relational equity with your staff.Leadership Development Pipeline at Brentwood Baptist – Structured training to grow ministry leaders (available internally).

Register Now for the Elevate Conference on September 9, 2025 Join us in Nashville, TN, for a one-day event designed to equip church leaders with practical strategies for sustainable ministry. Learn more at elevatechurchconference.com.On this episode of the Elevate Podcast, host Nic Gonzales (Worship Minister at The Church at Avenue South) is joined by Travis Cottrell (Worship Minister at Brentwood Baptist) and Luke Roman (Worship Minister at The Church at Station Hill) for a rich conversation on the theology of worship music and how song selection shapes the spiritual formation of a congregation. From building a healthy “song diet” to evaluating song rotation, introducing new songs, and retiring old ones, they discuss how worship leaders can shepherd their church through intentional and theological song choices.Meet the Speakers:Nic Gonzales – Worship Minister at The Church at Avenue South, passionate about encouraging authenticity in worship through music and relationships.Travis Cottrell – Worship Minister at Brentwood Baptist, seasoned leader, songwriter, and mentor shaping multi-generational worship in Middle Tennessee.Luke Roman – Worship Minister at The Church at Station Hill, committed to building singing congregations with a heart for spiritual depth and theological clarity.Topics Discussed in This Episode:2:00 – What is a healthy “song diet” and why it matters6:00 – How singing shapes theology and discipleship10:07 – Balancing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs13:00 – How worship engages mind, heart, and body15:18 – Evaluating your current rotation with a quarterly review20:15 – The role of theology in new song selection23:00 – Practical approaches to introducing new songs26:00 – How to connect new songs with spiritual moments31:00 – How often should you repeat songs to build familiarity?35:00 – When and how to “retire” a song with wisdom38:20 – Preparing your church for Easter songs47:00 – Encouragement for worship leaders in small or isolated churchesResources Mentioned:Grace Upon Grace – Michael BoggsBless God – Brooke LigertwoodHe Will Hold Me Fast – Keith & Kristyn GettySong Diet Exercise – Brentwood Worship team practice (inquire at Elevate Conference breakout sessions)Elevate Conference | September 9, 2025 | https://elevatechurchconference.com/ Elevate ConferenceLooking to grow as a worship leader or lead your team with greater clarity? Join us for the Elevate Conference on September 9, 2025, at Brentwood Baptist Church in Nashville, TN. This one-day event is packed with practical tools and fresh vision for every area of church leadership. Register now at https://elevatechurchconference.com/.

On this episode of the Elevate Podcast, Renee Blain hosts a conversation with Todd Villemont and Amy Keys about ministry to preschoolers and their families. The early years of parenting represent both a critical spiritual formation window and a time when many adults are most open to faith conversations. These ministry leaders explore how churches can seize this pivotal moment—when families are establishing patterns and parents are actively seeking guidance—to build relationships that will impact both child and parent discipleship for years to come.This discussion goes beyond classroom management to explore the critical partnership between church and home during the formative preschool years. From identifying expectant parents to facilitating parent-child dedication ceremonies, from creating spaces for authentic parent community to empowering families for mission, our guests share practical strategies that have strengthened families and pointed children toward Jesus.Meet the Speakers:Renee Blain: Associate Preschool Minister at Brentwood Baptist with 30 years of experience in preschool ministry and mother of two adult daughters.Todd Villemont: Preschool Minister at Brentwood Baptist with 13 years in children's ministry, father of two children ages 8 and 12.Amy Keys: Preschool Minister at the Church at Station Hill for 7 years, mother of three grown children ages 19-22.Topics Discussed in This Episode:1:31 - Introduction to our panel of preschool ministry experts3:14 - Identifying and reaching out to new and expectant parents6:02 - Introducing the New & Expectant Parents Class structure and content10:47 - What parent-child dedication looks like and why it matters13:53 - Common parenting questions and how to provide support16:48 - Creating spaces for parents to build community and find support21:20 - Gospel conversations with preschoolers: why and how24:19 - Equipping parents to lead Bible reading at home26:18 - Family service opportunities and mission experiences for preschoolersResources Mentioned:• The "Five Gs" framework for discipleship (Gospel Conversations, Groups, Gather, Give, Go)• Parenting: 14 Gospel Principles That Can Radically Change Your Family (with Study Questions) by Paul David TrippElevate Conference | September 9, 2025Join us for the Elevate Conference on September 9 at Brentwood Baptist Church in Nashville, TN. This one-day event equips church leaders with actionable strategies for discipleship, growth, and navigating ministry challenges. Register today at https://elevatechurchconference.com/.