The Unstuck Church Podcast with Tony Morgan

Better Sermon Series Planning - Episode 369 Oct 30, 2024

Weekend quality is about more than creative excellence. It’s about how well you leverage that time to engage both insiders and outsiders—for people who know Jesus and people who don’t.

The sermon is a core component of any weekend experience. In this episode, Sean and Amy break down strategies for planning a sermon series that really connects with both church-goers and newcomers. Joel Thomas from North Point Ministries also joins us to share some insights and tips to help make your sermons even more impactful.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode369.

This Episode is Sponsored by Horizons Stewardship

Did you know many capable households contribute more to their favorite charity than their local church? This trend is putting a significant financial strain on churches everywhere.

That’s why Horizons and The Unstuck Group have joined forces to create “The Financial Sustainability Crisis,” a guide designed to help you tackle these ongoing financial challenges.

In this invaluable resource, you’ll discover practical strategies to:

Effectively budget and manage your financial resources
Connect your giving to your discipleship journey
Identify ways to ensure your ministry plan is fully funded

Don’t let financial challenges hold you back from realizing your God-inspired vision. Download "The Financial Sustainability Crisis" today at horizons.net/fundministry.

Join the Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

How Prepared Is Your Church for Guests? - Episode 368 Oct 23, 2024

Weekend Quality Check (Part 1) - We’re hearing it from churches across the country: More and more people are showing up on the weekend, and it’s really encouraging.

When you have that kind of momentum, it’s easy to start coasting. It’s easy to stop noticing what needs attention, which is why now is a really good time for a quality check. Weekend quality is about more than creative excellence, though; it’s about how well you leverage that time to engage both insiders and outsiders.

So, in this series, we are going to share some practical ways you can up the quality of your weekend planning, preparation and execution—to steward the momentum if you have it or to spark it if you don’t.

In the first episode, Amy and Sean talk about common issues we see with the way churches prepare (or don’t prepare) for guests and share some solutions. We also interview Pastor Mark Johnson from The Journey in Delaware, a church we’ve served for years that sets a high bar in how they prepare for first-time guests.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode368.

This Episode is Sponsored by Horizons Stewardship

Did you know many capable households contribute more to their favorite charity than their local church? This trend is putting a significant financial strain on churches everywhere.

That’s why Horizons and The Unstuck Group have joined forces to create “The Financial Sustainability Crisis,” a guide designed to help you tackle these ongoing financial challenges.

In this invaluable resource, you’ll discover practical strategies to:

Effectively budget and manage your financial resources
Connect your giving to your discipleship journey
Identify ways to ensure your ministry plan is fully funded

Don’t let financial challenges hold you back from realizing your God-inspired vision. Download "The Financial Sustainability Crisis" today at horizons.net/fundministry.

Join the Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Raising a Generation with Courageous Faith feat. Christie Penner Worden - Episode 367 Oct 16, 2024

Is the leader of your family ministry included at the leadership table?

In the final episode of our series on "What It Really Takes To Reach Young Families," we had a conversation with Christie Penner Worden. Christie is a strategic leader, speaker, preacher and writer who is passionate about discipling children and equipping churches to raise this next generation with courageous faith.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode367.

This Episode is Sponsored by Horizons Stewardship

Did you know many capable households contribute more to their favorite charity than their local church? This trend is putting a significant financial strain on churches everywhere.

That’s why Horizons and The Unstuck Group have joined forces to create “The Financial Sustainability Crisis,” a guide designed to help you tackle these ongoing financial challenges.

In this invaluable resource, you’ll discover practical strategies to:

Effectively budget and manage your financial resources
Connect your giving to your discipleship journey
Identify ways to ensure your ministry plan is fully funded

Don’t let financial challenges hold you back from realizing your God-inspired vision. Download "The Financial Sustainability Crisis" today at horizons.net/fundministry.

Join the Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Innovation & Creativity in Kids Ministry feat. Justyn Smith: Episode 366 Oct 09, 2024

One thing is often overlooked when it comes to engaging kids and families—the environment. Creating compelling ministry spaces is crucial for reaching the next generation.

Justyn Smith from PlainJoe Studios has 22 years of experience in kids’ ministry. He works with some of the most innovative and creative churches in the country to develop compelling ministry spaces for children. In this episode, we invited Justyn to share what he’s learned about reaching the next generation through dynamic environments.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode366.

This Episode is Sponsored by Horizons Stewardship

Horizons Stewardship utilizes a collaborative and integrated ministry framework designed to fit each organization’s unique culture and support church and faith-based nonprofit leaders in their mission to grow disciples and fund ministry through coaching, planning, technology, and analytics.

Horizons has over three decades of experience and has developed a spiritually focused approach that consistently yields more funding for ministry and more effective disciple-making strategies. With the support of seasoned ministry strategists, proven generosity guides, and ICF-trained coaches, ministries that partner with Horizons experience, on average, a double-digit increase in giving within the first year. Interested in learning more? Click here.

Join the Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Vision & Leadership for a Multigenerational Church - Episode 365 Oct 02, 2024

Who is responsible? When kids’ attendance numbers are down, senior leaders can tend to blame the kids’ pastor.

But the truth is that the children’s pastor has very little control over creating the necessary environment for reaching young families. The church’s leadership and vision are big factors.

Before Tony Morgan’s tragic passing in early September 2024, we had recorded the remaining podcast episodes in this series on “What It Really Takes To Reach Young Families.” Tony was passionate about this topic and had so much practical wisdom to offer. We’ve decided to release the remaining episodes of this series over the next few weeks.

For Part 2, Tony and Amy had a conversation specifically about the aspects of ministry vision and leadership that are essential to the success or failure of kids’ pastors in their roles.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode365.

This Episode is Sponsored by Horizons Stewardship

Horizons Stewardship utilizes a collaborative and integrated ministry framework designed to fit each organization’s unique culture and support church and faith-based nonprofit leaders in their mission to grow disciples and fund ministry through coaching, planning, technology, and analytics.

Horizons has over three decades of experience and has developed a spiritually focused approach that consistently yields more funding for ministry and more effective disciple-making strategies. With the support of seasoned ministry strategists, proven generosity guides, and ICF-trained coaches, ministries that partner with Horizons experience, on average, a double-digit increase in giving within the first year. Interested in learning more? Click here.

Join the Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Celebrating Tony Morgan Sep 11, 2024

Many of you have already heard of Tony Morgan's passing on the morning of Wednesday, September 4, 2024, after suffering a heart attack two days before and battling with all his strength.

But we wanted you to hear it from our voices.

This is a tribute to the best boss we ever had, the leader who practiced what he preached, and the man who loved Jesus and His church. In this short episode, Sean, Tiffany, and Amy share the statement released by The Unstuck Group, along with some updates on the future of the podcast.

It's been an unspeakably difficult week. Thank you for all your kind words and prayers. Please continue to lift up Emily and all of Tony's kids in prayer, and the Unstuck team too.

The Morgan family has published Tony's obituary and asked us to share it with you.

We will be celebrating the life and the legacy that Tony lived on September 19th at 11:00 am Eastern at his church, North Point Community Church. If you choose to attend, please wear anything but black clothes, because this is a celebration—celebration of the life he lived and the impact that we will continue to carry throughout our lives.

If you plan to attend the service, please bring a handwritten or typed note with a memory of Tony or a description of the impact he had on your life. Notes will be displayed on a memory board at the reception following the service, and treasured forever by the family. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that you make a donation in support of a cause close to Tony’s heart: developing the next generation to lead unstuck churches. You can donate here to a fund established to provide scholarships for young pastors to participate in leadership training through The Unstuck Group.

What It Really Takes To Reach Young Families (Part 1): The Foundation Sep 04, 2024

If a church is engaging young families, it’s pretty easy to see. What’s less obvious to the outside observer is all the decisions they have made to become a church that parents and kids want to attend—what it really takes.

There’s much more to it than curriculum, facilities or finding the right staff, and through this series, we are going to unpack all of what goes into it.

In this first episode, we explore why reaching young families needs to be a priority and the tensions we know pastors are feeling around it.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode364.

This episode is brought to you by Planning Center:

An all-in-one software to help you organize your ministries and care for your church.

With an easy-to-use platform of products, you can bring people together with event signups, room and resource reservations, automatic volunteer scheduling, and much more.

Start using it for free now at planningcenter.com.

Join the Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Brand New Data on Church Health and Trends: Q3 2024 Unstuck Church Report - Episode 363 Aug 28, 2024

Every quarter, The Unstuck Group compiles all the data we’ve collected to monitor trends in churches in the United States.

In this episode, Amy and I discuss findings from the Q3 2024 Unstuck Church Report and take a targeted look at key differences between growing churches and churches that are plateauing or declining.

You can subscribe to receive the quarterly report for free, or if you're subscribed to the podcast show notes, we'll send it out to you for free, as well.

This Episode is Sponsored by Horizons Stewardship

Horizons Stewardship utilizes a collaborative and integrated ministry framework designed to fit each organization’s unique culture and support church and faith-based nonprofit leaders in their mission to grow disciples and fund ministry through coaching, planning, technology, and analytics.

Horizons has over three decades of experience and has developed a spiritually focused approach that consistently yields more funding for ministry and more effective disciple-making strategies. With the support of seasoned ministry strategists, proven generosity guides, and ICF-trained coaches, ministries that partner with Horizons experience, on average, a double-digit increase in giving within the first year. Interested in learning more? Click here.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode363.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter/X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

BONUS Episode - Organizational Health in Churches: An Interview with Beau Johnson from The Table Group Aug 22, 2024

Organizational health impacts the overall health of churches.

When there are gaps in strengths, trust and accountability in staff teams, stuckness soon follows.

Here at The Unstuck Group, we've found an effective way for our team to identify their strengths and close gaps in their leadership through Working Genius by The Table Group.

In this BONUS episode, Tony Morgan interviews Beau Johnson from The Table Group about the importance of organizational health in churches and how Working Genius offers solutions.

This episode is brought to you by The Six Types of Working Genius:

Working Genius is the fastest way to increase productivity, improve morale, and decrease turnover on your team. It takes ten minutes to discover the work that gives you joy and energy, and the work that is leading to staff burnout.

Take the assessment.
Discuss your results.
Engage the geniuses of the people around you.

Get started today: Use code UNSTUCKWG for 20% off at workinggenius.com.

Join the Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

More Things Unstuck Churches Have In Common - Episode 362 Aug 21, 2024

Our data consistently contradicts the broader trends of declining religious affiliation and church engagement in our country.

In fact, we personally know many churches that are experiencing major momentum right now—in terms of attendance, engagement, professions of faith, giving and all kinds of metrics of church health.

Clearly, there’s something different about the churches that are part of our tribe. So, in the final episode of the series, we’re going to share a few other things that make a church unstuck—more things those churches have in common.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode362.

This episode is brought to you by The Six Types of Working Genius:

Working Genius is the fastest way to increase productivity, improve morale, and decrease turnover on your team. It takes ten minutes to discover the work that gives you joy and energy, and the work that is leading to staff burnout.

Take the assessment.
Discuss your results.
Engage the geniuses of the people around you.

Get started today: Use code UNSTUCKWG for 20% off at workinggenius.com.

Join the Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Why Some Churches Are NOT In Decline - Episode 361 Aug 14, 2024

People are often surprised when they read our reports for the first time.

Our data shows contradictory trends to much of what we read in general research.

For example, in our most recent edition of The Unstuck Church Report, the average year-over-year attendance increase was 17%. There’s clearly something different about the churches engaging with our surveys. Despite the headlines, we know 100s of churches that are NOT in decline.

So, are U.S. churches stuck or unstuck? Over the next two episodes, we’re going to try to explain what’s so different about unstuck churches—based on real-life examples—and give you some practical ways to make sense of the things contributing to church growth or decline.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode361.

This episode is brought to you by The Six Types of Working Genius:

Working Genius is the fastest way to increase productivity, improve morale, and decrease turnover on your team. It takes ten minutes to discover the work that gives you joy and energy, and the work that is leading to staff burnout.

Take the assessment.
Discuss your results.
Engage the geniuses of the people around you.

Get started today: Use code UNSTUCKWG for 20% off at workinggenius.com.

Join the Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

The State of Religious Participation in American Life with Alan Cooperman of Pew Research Center - Episode 360 Aug 07, 2024

New data, same headlines. The surveys and studies always seem to repeat the same refrain: Church attendance is in decline. Religious participation is phasing out of American life. Except…our data shows the opposite. In our most recent edition of The Unstuck Church Report, the average year-over-year attendance increase was 17% across churches of all sizes. There’s clearly something different about the churches engaging with our surveys.

In this series, we’re going to try to explain what’s so different about unstuck churches and give you some practical ways to make sense of the things contributing to church growth or decline.

We have our own data and observations from the work we do that we will share in the next two episodes, but we wanted to start out with an exploration of recent data and trends from an authority on religion in American life. So, we invited Alan Cooperman from Pew Research Center to join us for a conversation about the broader trends happening in the U.S.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode360.

This episode is brought to you by The Six Types of Working Genius:

Working Genius is the fastest way to increase productivity, improve morale, and decrease turnover on your team. It takes ten minutes to discover the work that gives you joy and energy, and the work that is leading to staff burnout.

Take the assessment.
Discuss your results.
Engage the geniuses of the people around you.

Get started today: Use code UNSTUCKWG for 20% off at workinggenius.com.

Join the Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Spiritual Gifts, Serving and Growth Track with Chris Hodges - Episode 359 Jul 31, 2024

When people discover their gifts, they begin to feel more connected and fulfilled. But few churches know how to help people discover the unique wiring God has given them—and fewer still have a plan to help people leverage those gifts once discovered.

We wrap up this series on "Serving as Spiritual Formation" with an interview with Pastor Chris Hodges from Church of the Highlands to unpack the success they've had with "Growth Track," which has inspired thousands of churches across the country, and the overall importance of helping people serve with their gifts as part of their spiritual formation journey.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode359.

This episode is brought to you by Planning Center:

An all-in-one software to help you organize your ministries and care for your church.

With an easy-to-use platform of products, you can bring people together with event signups, room and resource reservations, automatic volunteer scheduling, and much more.

Start using for free now at planningcenter.com.

Join the Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

The Rooted Experience with John Thomas from Mariners Church - Episode 358 Jul 24, 2024

It is possible to integrate serving into your spiritual formation strategy in a practical and effective way. We’re seeing churches all across the country do it.

In recent years, churches we serve have been telling us they love The Rooted Experience.

So, in part four of this series on Serving as Spiritual Formation, Tony interviews Pastor John Thomas from Mariners Church in California about The Rooted Experience. John shares how Rooted is helping people connect to faith and the church, why it is so effective and how Mariners Church encourages people to engage in serving opportunities as part of their spiritual formation.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode358.

This episode is brought to you by Planning Center:

An all-in-one software to help you organize your ministries and care for your church.

With an easy-to-use platform of products, you can bring people together with event signups, room and resource reservations, automatic volunteer scheduling, and much more.

Start using for free now at planningcenter.com.

Join the Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

The Discipleship Opportunity with Daniel Im - Episode 357 Jul 17, 2024

Spiritual formation is less about what we ask people to do and more about who we’re equipping people to become.

In this episode, Tony interviews Pastor Daniel Im, author of The Discipleship Opportunity: Leading a Great-Commission Church in a Post-Everything World, about the role serving has in helping people grow closer to Jesus.

This episode is brought to you by Planning Center:

An all-in-one software to help you organize your ministries and care for your church.

With an easy-to-use platform of products, you can bring people together with event signups, room and resource reservations, automatic volunteer scheduling, and much more.

Start using for free now at planningcenter.com.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode357. Join the Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Structure for Volunteer Engagement - Episode 356 Jul 10, 2024

Before the pandemic, we typically saw 45% to 50% of all adults and students serving on a volunteer team at least monthly. Our most recent data shows churches reporting only 35% are serving today.

In the first episode of this series on "Serving as Spiritual Formation," we talked about some of the most common mistakes churches make with their volunteer engagement strategy that are contributing to that shortage of volunteers. But in this second episode, we’re going to look at the structural mistakes churches make that lead to low volunteer engagement.

Tony and Amy talk about the structure of churches that engage the most volunteers in serving roles, and specifically, how this needs to be considered a spiritual formation issue.

This episode is brought to you by Planning Center:

An all-in-one software to help you organize your ministries and care for your church.

With an easy-to-use platform of products, you can bring people together with event signups, room and resource reservations, automatic volunteer scheduling, and much more.

Start using for free now at planningcenter.com.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode356. Join the Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Strategy for Volunteer Engagement - Episode 355 Jul 03, 2024

Most churches say they need more volunteers. But answer this honestly: What is your theology of serving? How well is your church discipling people to offer their spiritual gifts as part of the Great Commission?

Many churches have gotten further away from viewing serving as an integral part of spiritual formation than they’d likely admit.

In this series, Tony and Amy and special guests will share best practices on the strategy side of engaging people in serving, as well as critical elements of team-building and structure to engage more people using their gifts in the mission of your church.

In the first episode, they unpack the strategy mistakes churches are often making that inhibit a strong volunteer engagement culture.

This episode is brought to you by Planning Center:

An all-in-one software to help you organize your ministries and care for your church.

With an easy-to-use platform of products, you can bring people together with event signups, room and resource reservations, automatic volunteer scheduling, and much more.

Start using for free now at planningcenter.com.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode355. Join the Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

How to Find Great People for Your Church Staff Team - Interview with Tim Foot (Bonus Episode) Jun 27, 2024

We know from our research and conversations with clients that finding great people for the ministry staff team is very challenging right now.

As an addedumn to our series on "Staffing Wisdom for Church Leaders," we bring you this bonus interview with Tim Foot of Slingshot Group for some timely insights into church staffing in 2024.

In this conversation, Tony and Tim discuss topics like:

The positions churches are having the hardest time filling
Insights into how churches find great people for their staff teams on this side of the pandemic
Distinctives about churches who are attracting and retaining younger people on their teams
Best practices for raising up leaders from within

Learn more about Slingshot Group

Connect with Tim Foot

Planning a Restructure?

People-problems are uniquely challenging on a ministry staff team. Leading your people through them is hard. Through our Staffing & Structure process, you can go from feeling overwhelmed by the weight of the people-problems to feeling confident in your ability to structure and lead your team for health and high performance. Learn more at theunstuckgroup.com.

Join the Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Handling Misfits - Episode 354 Jun 26, 2024

Leaders know it's true: Not having the right people on the team hinders the impact of your church. So what do you do when it's clear you need to remove someone from the team—when it's clear they are not a fit?

In the last episode of our series on "Staffing Wisdom for Church Leaders," Tony and Amy discuss the very real reasons why letting someone go is so hard for ministry leaders, the ways you need to be effectively evaluating performance as an organization (and specifically, managing people who are underperforming), and how you can approach it all with wisdom and grace.

Planning a Restructure?

People-problems are uniquely challenging on a ministry staff team. Leading your people through them is hard. Through our Staffing & Structure process, you can go from feeling overwhelmed by the weight of the people-problems to feeling confident in your ability to structure and lead your team for health and high performance. Learn more at theunstuckgroup.com.

This Episode is Sponsored by The Church Lawyers

The Church Lawyers’ Client Member program was created for organizations just like yours. Their team of Christian legal professionals are personally called to empower and protect churches, ministries, and their leaders to fulfill their mission by providing biblically informed and ministry-focused legal solutions. Whether governance, employment, litigation, or other matters, let The Church Lawyers walk alongside you as you navigate legal issues facing your ministry.

Sign up for the The Church Lawyers’ Client Member program today at thechurchlawyers.com.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode354. Join the Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Right People, Right Roles - Episode 353 Jun 19, 2024

This part makes a leader's stomach drop. We've laid the groundwork, and we've taught you the wisest order for processing restructure decisions. But now, we’re going to dive into wisdom that has more to do with how you make decisions about specific people.

In the third episode of our series on "Staffing Wisdom for Church Leaders," Tony and Amy focus on people who really are the right people for the team, but they are not in the right roles—and they share how to approach things when you can’t ignore the issue any longer.

FREE WEBINAR: How to Restructure Wisely

TOMORROW: In this free webinar on June 20 at 1pm EST, Tony and Amy share how you can lead through through an organizational restructure with confidence, and how your church can come out stronger on the other side. Register now.

This Episode is Sponsored by The Church Lawyers

The Church Lawyers’ Client Member program was created for organizations just like yours. Their team of Christian legal professionals are personally called to empower and protect churches, ministries, and their leaders to fulfill their mission by providing biblically informed and ministry-focused legal solutions. Whether governance, employment, litigation, or other matters, let The Church Lawyers walk alongside you as you navigate legal issues facing your ministry.

Sign up for the The Church Lawyers’ Client Member program today at thechurchlawyers.com.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode353. Join the Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Stack the Leadership Team - Episode 352 Jun 12, 2024

Do you believe your current senior leadership team offers you your best chance to achieve the vision and mission God designed for your church to accomplish right now?

Before you start restructuring departments of your ministry, you need to clarify the role of the SLT and get the right people leading on it. In the second episode of our series on "Staffing Wisdom for Church Leaders," Tony and Amy talk about stacking your leadership team with gifted and qualified people.

FREE WEBINAR: How to Restructure Wisely

In this webinar on June 20 at 1pm EST, Tony and Amy share how you can lead through through an organizational restructure with confidence, and how your church can come out stronger on the other side. Register now.

This Episode is Sponsored by The Church Lawyers

The Church Lawyers’ Client Member program was created for organizations just like yours. Their team of Christian legal professionals are personally called to empower and protect churches, ministries, and their leaders to fulfill their mission by providing biblically informed and ministry-focused legal solutions. Whether governance, employment, litigation, or other matters, let The Church Lawyers walk alongside you as you navigate legal issues facing your ministry.

Sign up for the The Church Lawyers’ Client Member program today at thechurchlawyers.com.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode352. Join the Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Structure to the Strategy - Episode 351 Jun 05, 2024

We help teams solve complicated staffing challenges with wisdom and grace all the time. We’ve helped more than 650 churches do it. So, we’re going to share some of that wisdom related to structure, leadership, getting the right people in the right roles, and handling “misfits” in this new series we're calling "Staffing Wisdom for Church Leaders."

In the first episode, Tony and Amy unpack the core tension pastors feel when it becomes evident an organizational restructure is needed, and some of the most critical factors to take into account before you start making any decisions about specific people.

FREE WEBINAR: How to Restructure Wisely

In this webinar on June 20 at 1pm EST, Tony and Amy share how you can lead through through an organizational restructure with confidence, and how your church can come out stronger on the other side. Register now.

This Episode is Sponsored by The Church Lawyers

The Church Lawyers’ Client Member program was created for organizations just like yours. Their team of Christian legal professionals are personally called to empower and protect churches, ministries, and their leaders to fulfill their mission by providing biblically informed and ministry-focused legal solutions. Whether governance, employment, litigation, or other matters, let The Church Lawyers walk alongside you as you navigate legal issues facing your ministry.

Sign up for the The Church Lawyers’ Client Member program today at thechurchlawyers.com.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode351. Join the Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

New Church Staffing Trends: Q2 2024 Unstuck Church Report - Episode 350 May 29, 2024

Every quarter, The Unstuck Group releases The Unstuck Church Report to help church leaders monitor trends and benchmarks in key ministry areas.

In this episode, Tony and Amy discuss key findings from the Q2 2024 special edition of the report focused on staffing and structure trends.

You can subscribe to receive the quarterly report for free, or, if you're subscribed to the podcast show notes, we'll send it out to you for free, as well.

This Episode is Sponsored by Horizons Stewardship

Horizons Stewardship utilizes a collaborative and integrated ministry framework designed to fit each organization’s unique culture and support church and faith-based nonprofit leaders in their mission to grow disciples and fund ministry through coaching, planning, technology, and analytics.

Horizons has over three decades of experience and has developed a spiritually focused approach that consistently yields more funding for ministry and more effective disciple-making strategies. With the support of seasoned ministry strategists, proven generosity guides, and ICF-trained coaches, ministries that partner with Horizons experience, on average, a double-digit increase in giving within the first year. Interested in learning more? Click here.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode350.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter/X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Simple But Not Easy - Episode 349 May 22, 2024

Constant crises, lack of training, inadequate systems for project management—there's a long list of reasons why the process of "assess, plan, and execute" may be simple but not easy.

In the final episode of our series on "How Healthy Churches Grow," Tony and Amy share some practical, proven ways to carve out time to follow through on the priority initiatives you've identified to grow the church in health and numbers.

FREE WEBINAR: What's Working in Large Churches Now

In this webinar, Tony Morgan is sitting down with lead pastors J.D. Greear, Eric Geiger and Adam Starling to discuss what’s actually working in their large churches now to reach new people and engage people in the life of the church. Register now.

This Episode is Sponsored by PATH

Is your staff spending too much time pulling reports and creating dashboards to gain clarity, define reality and understand how engaged your people are? It's time to stop chasing reports and start focusing on people with PATH. Transform the data you already have into discipleship with PATH's clear, actionable reports. To learn more and to get your first free resource, visit pathengagement.com/unstuck today.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode349. Join the Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

The Rhythm of Planning - Episode 348 May 15, 2024

You can make better decisions today regarding people, money, current priorities, etc. when you have clarity on what the future looks like.

In this episode of our series on "How Healthy Churches Grow," Tony and Amy focus on the importance of making it part of your culture to have a regular rhythm of planning that involves the right voices.

FREE WEBINAR: What's Working in Large Churches Now

In this webinar, Tony Morgan is sitting down with lead pastors J.D. Greear, Eric Geiger and Adam Starling to discuss what’s actually working in their large churches now to reach new people and engage people in the life of the church. Register now.

This Episode is Sponsored by PATH

Is your staff spending too much time pulling reports and creating dashboards to gain clarity, define reality and understand how engaged your people are? It's time to stop chasing reports and start focusing on people with PATH. Transform the data you already have into discipleship with PATH's clear, actionable reports. To learn more and to get your first free resource, visit pathengagement.com/unstuck today.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode348. Join the Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

The First Step Toward Healthy Growth – Episode 347 May 08, 2024

Attendance growth isn't always a sign of health. After all, both healthy and unhealthy things can grow.

In the first episode of our new series on "How Healthy Churches Grow," Tony and Amy unpack the first principle of healthy growth based on our work with 650+ churches: objective assessment.

FREE WEBINAR: What's Working in Large Churches Now

In this webinar, Tony Morgan is sitting down with lead pastors J.D. Greear, Eric Geiger and Adam Starling to discuss what’s actually working in their large churches now to reach new people and engage people in the life of the church. Register now.

This Episode is Sponsored by PATH

As your church grows, it becomes difficult to see individuals through the crowd. It’s time to transform your data into discipleship with PATH. Using PATH’s clear, actionable reports to define reality, gain clarity, and know your people, you can be confident that you're maximizing your data to shepherd and care for the people in your church when they need you most.

To learn more and receive a free resource on "Shepherding Tips and Ideas," visit pathengagement.com/unstuck.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode347. Join the Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

How to Talk About Faith “Non-Essentials” (with Pastor Dave Dummitt) – Episode 346 May 01, 2024

“Discussing the non-essentials ought to help you make disciples, not hinder you from making disciples.”

In this episode, Pastor Dave Dummitt from Willow Creek Community Church joins us to discuss exploring tough topics as a church and navigating non-essentials in our faith.

This Episode is Sponsored by PATH

As your church grows, it becomes difficult to see individuals through the crowd. It’s time to transform your data into discipleship with PATH. Using PATH’s clear, actionable reports to define reality, gain clarity, and know your people, you can be confident that you're maximizing your data to shepherd and care for the people in your church when they need you most.

To learn more and receive a free resource on "Shepherding Tips and Ideas," visit pathengagement.com/unstuck.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode346. Join the Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

How To Talk About Politics (with Andy Stanley) - Episode 345 Apr 24, 2024

“My responsibility as a pastor isn't to convince you that my view on things is correct. My responsibility is to disciple you to be a better follower of Jesus.”

In this episode, Tony sits down with Andy Stanley to discuss how pastors can navigate controversial topics regarding politics—especially as we enter an election season in the US.

> Registration closes TOMORROW for our 2024 Executive Pastor Cohort.

This Episode is Sponsored by Planning Center

This episode is brought to you by Planning Center, an all-in-one software to help you organize your ministries and care for your church. With an easy-to-use platform of products, you can bring people together with event signups, room and resource reservations, automatic volunteer scheduling, and much more. Start using for free now at planningcenter.com. For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode345. Join the Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

How to Talk About Sexuality & More (with Pastor Rich Villodas) – Episode 344 Apr 17, 2024

“I have sensed a need from God to be courageous in these moments and recognize that not everyone's going to be happy with what I'm saying.”

In this episode, Rich Villodas, Pastor of New Life Fellowship (a large, multi-racial church in Queens, NY), offers wisdom for discipling our diverse churches on tough topics like sexuality.

Learn more about our Executive Pastor Cohort.

This Episode is Sponsored by Planning Center

This episode is brought to you by Planning Center, an all-in-one software to help you organize your ministries and care for your church. With an easy-to-use platform of products, you can bring people together with event signups, room and resource reservations, automatic volunteer scheduling, and much more. Start using for free now at planningcenter.com. For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode344. Join the Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

How to Talk About Mental Health (with Pastor Rick Atchley) - Episode 343 Apr 10, 2024

We’re kicking off a special new series packed with practical wisdom from senior pastors to senior/teaching pastors to challenge and encourage them to equip their congregations to talk about tough topics in our world today.

In this episode, Pastor Rick Atchley shares how The Hills Church developed a sermon series around mental health and provides encouragement for other pastors looking to address this topic.

You can watch Pastor Rick’s series, Let’s Talk About Mental Health, here.

This Episode is Sponsored by Planning Center

This episode is brought to you by Planning Center, an all-in-one software to help you organize your ministries and care for your church. With an easy-to-use platform of products, you can bring people together with event signups, room and resource reservations, automatic volunteer scheduling, and much more. Start using for free now at planningcenter.com. For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode343. Join the Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

9 Principles for Going Multisite Through a Merger - Episode 342 Apr 03, 2024

Closed campuses were 40% more likely to have launched as a result of a merger with another church. That’s why we believe you need a clear multisite strategy before you can make good decisions about merger opportunities.

To wrap up our series on “Multisite Madness?,” Tony and Amy unpack the nine predictable outcomes of multisite through the lens of going multisite by a merger.

Learn more about our process for helping monosite churches go multisite for the very first time.

Going Multisite: How to Launch Your First Campus & Avoid Common Pitfalls

The unknowns around going multisite for the first time can create anxiety—after all, if you’ve never led through this before, you “don’t know what you don’t know.” At this free webinar, we’ll help you get clarity on the how, when, and who of going multisite for the first time. Register now.

This Episode is Sponsored by Planning Center

This episode is brought to you by Planning Center, an all-in-one software to help you organize your ministries and care for your church. With an easy-to-use platform of products, you can bring people together with event signups, room and resource reservations, automatic volunteer scheduling, and much more. Start using for free now at planningcenter.com. For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode342. Join the Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Defining Multisite Structure & Roles - Episode 341 Mar 27, 2024

What are the bare minimum leadership roles when you first launch a campus? How do you define central and campus roles? And what does a matrix structure really look like?

In this episode, Tony and Amy unpack the final three “predictable outcomes” of multisite related to defining your multisite structure and roles.

Learn more about our process for helping monosite churches go multisite for the very first time.

Going Multisite: How to Launch Your First Campus & Avoid Common Pitfalls

The unknowns around going multisite for the first time can create anxiety—after all, if you’ve never led through this before, you “don’t know what you don’t know.” At this free webinar, we’ll help you get clarity on the how, when, and who of going multisite for the first time. Register now.

This Episode is Sponsored by PlainJoe

Are you considering adding a second or third campus to your growing church? Need help telling your church’s unique story across every location? PlainJoe, a Storyland Studio, has you covered. Their team of creative storytellers, talented designers, and innovative architects are passionate about helping churches tell their stories through spatial, interactive, and strategic storytelling. To learn more about a large church can succeed launching its first campus in a smaller venue, read PlainJoe's article: "8 Questions to Ask Before Your Church Goes Multisite."

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode341.

Join the Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Preparing for Your First Campus Launch - Episode 340 Mar 20, 2024

What’s the key to launching at the right size, in the right space, and with the right launch team to build and sustain a new multisite campus?

In this episode, Tony and Amy unpack these questions and explain three “predictable outcomes” of multisite related to preparing for launch.

Learn more about our process for helping monosite churches go multisite for the very first time.

Going Multisite: How to Launch Your First Campus & Avoid Common Pitfalls

The unknowns around going multisite for the first time can create anxiety—after all, if you’ve never led through this before, you “don’t know what you don’t know.” At this free webinar, we’ll help you get clarity on the how, when, and who of going multisite for the first time. Register now.

This Episode is Sponsored by PlainJoe

Are you considering adding a second or third campus to your growing church? Need help telling your church’s unique story across every location? PlainJoe, a Storyland Studio, has you covered. Their team of creative storytellers, talented designers, and innovative architects are passionate about helping churches tell their stories through spatial, interactive, and strategic storytelling. To learn more about a large church can succeed launching its first campus in a smaller venue, read PlainJoe's article: "8 Questions to Ask Before Your Church Goes Multisite."

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode340.

Join the Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Considering Multisite? What to Know Before You Launch - Episode 339 Mar 13, 2024

All of the competing strategies and opinions around multisite can feel like madness: What really works? Is multisite right for every church? Is multisite right for ANY church?

In this new series, Tony and Amy walk through nine “predictable outcomes” of multisite to help monosite churches make the critical decisions that lead to more predictable multisite success.

Learn more about our process for helping monosite churches go multisite for the very first time.

Going Multisite: How to Launch Your First Campus & Avoid Common Pitfalls

The unknowns around going multisite for the first time can create anxiety—after all, if you’ve never led through this before, you “don’t know what you don’t know.” At this free webinar, We’ll help you get clarity on the how, when, and who of going multisite for the first time. Register now.

This Episode is Sponsored by PlainJoe

Are you considering adding a second or third campus to your growing church? Need help telling your church’s unique story across every location? PlainJoe, a Storyland Studio, has you covered. Their team of creative storytellers, talented designers, and innovative architects are passionate about helping churches tell their stories through spatial, interactive, and strategic storytelling. To learn more about a large church can succeed launching its first campus in a smaller venue, read PlainJoe's article: "8 Questions to Ask Before Your Church Goes Multisite."

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode339.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

New Church Data & Trends: Q1 2024 Unstuck Church Report - Episode 338 Mar 06, 2024

Every quarter, The Unstuck Group releases The Unstuck Church Report to help church leaders monitor trends and benchmarks in key ministry areas.

In this episode, Tony and Amy discuss key findings from the Q1 2024 report and unpack what's distinctive about "Jesus-centric" churches.

You can subscribe to receive the quarterly report for free, or, if you're subscribed to the podcast show notes, we'll send it out to you for free, as well.

This Episode is Sponsored by Church Central Office

Church Central Office focuses on your finances so you can focus on ministry. The only outsourced and remote church accounting department and CFO team that is founded by a former Executive Pastor, Church Central Office knows what it’s like to juggle the complexities of church budgeting, finance, and operations.

With Church Central Office, you’ll receive dedicated finance management and reporting, advice on budgeting and forecasting, and trusted council for all your accounting needs. Learn more.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode338.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter/X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Structuring Your Staff to Reach & Connect New People - Episode 337 Feb 28, 2024

The way we staff and structure our team is revealing of what we really prioritize as a ministry.

In this episode, Tony and Amy walk through the journey of a new person and explain the staff structure and roles needed to be a church that reaches and connects new people well.

Upcoming Events:

In a free webinar on February 29, ministry voices from North Point, Sun Valley Community Church, and Victory Hill Church will walk through proven strategies and best practices for creating intentional weekend services that reach and connect with new people. Register now.

Learn more about our Multisite Leader Cohort.

This Episode is Sponsored by SecureGive

Giving presents challenges for growing churches. But SecureGive’s 7-in-1 system makes donating easy and secure, provides in-depth analytics and management tools for your team, and integrates with your Church Management System. It’s the system that scales to fit the needs of growing churches. SecureGive is offering 6 months of free software to get your church started—visit SecureGive.com/unstuck to learn more.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode337.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X/Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Mobilizing Your Church to Reach New People - Episode 336 Feb 21, 2024

Our role as leaders is to empower our church to do the work of ministry and to make the mission their own.

In this episode, we’re joined by Jon and Dave Ferguson to discuss the B.L.E.S.S. model for mobilizing our congregations to reach our communities.

Free Webinar: Reaching & Connecting New People in 2024

In this free webinar, ministry voices from North Point, Sun Valley Community Church, and Victory Hill Church will walk through proven strategies and best practices for creating intentional weekend services that reach and connect with new people. Register now.

This Episode is Sponsored by SecureGive

Giving presents challenges for growing churches. But SecureGive’s 7-in-1 system makes donating easy and secure, provides in-depth analytics and management tools for your team, and integrates with your Church Management System. It’s the system that scales to fit the needs of growing churches. SecureGive is offering 6 months of free software to get your church started—visit SecureGive.com/unstuck to learn more.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode336.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X/Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Proven Strategies for Guest Connections & Follow-Up - Episode 335 Feb 14, 2024

We’re hearing from churches in this season that although lots of new people are walking through their doors each week, they’re having trouble connecting with them and helping them “become known.”

In this episode, Tony and Amy are joined by Nate Siemon, Lead Pastor of Lifepointe Church, and Tyler Smith, co-founder of Text in Church, to explore some of their tried and true ideas for connecting new people and helping them take next steps in your church.

Free Webinar: Reaching & Connecting New People in 2024

In this free webinar, ministry voices from North Point, Sun Valley Community Church, and Victory Hill Church will walk through proven strategies and best practices for creating intentional weekend services that reach and connect with new people. Register now.

This Episode is Sponsored by SecureGive

Giving presents challenges for growing churches. But SecureGive’s 7-in-1 system makes donating easy and secure, provides in-depth analytics and management tools for your team, and integrates with your Church Management System. It’s the system that scales to fit the needs of growing churches. SecureGive is offering 6 months of free software to get your church started—visit SecureGive.com/unstuck to learn more.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode335.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X/Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Reaching New People Through Events - Episode 334 Feb 07, 2024

Churches are telling us that there's no shortage of new people walking through their doors each weekend—but they're struggling with how to connect and mobilize them into next steps.

In the first episode of our new series, Tony and Amy explain how to use (and how not to use) strategic events to reach new people.

Free Webinar: Reaching & Connecting New People in 2024

In this free webinar, ministry voices from North Point, Sun Valley Community Church, and Victory Hill Church will walk through proven strategies and best practices for creating intentional weekend services that reach and connect with new people. Register now.

This Episode is Sponsored by SecureGive

Giving presents challenges for growing churches. But SecureGive’s 7-in-1 system makes donating easy and secure, provides in-depth analytics and management tools for your team, and integrates with your Church Management System. It’s the system that scales to fit the needs of growing churches. SecureGive is offering 6 months of free software to get your church started—visit SecureGive.com/unstuck to learn more.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode334.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X/Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Stupid Church Tricks: Multisite & More - Episode 333 Jan 31, 2024

Pride can sometimes cause us to think that we won't make the same mistakes that others have made or that we can be the exception to the rule. We did this series because we hope that the church leaders who are listening will be willing to learn from the mistakes of others and not go down these paths.

In the final episode of our series, Tony and Amy discuss more miscellaneous stupid church tricks, like mistakes related to multisite, church websites, church buildings, and more.

This Episode is Sponsored by PlainJoe Studios

PlainJoe: A Storyland Studio partners with churches, nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and educational environments to create unforgettable strategic, digital, and spatial stories that lift the Spirit. To learn more about working with PlainJoe’s team of down-to-earth specialists, architects, strategists, artists, and problem solvers, visit plainjoestudios.com/getunstuck.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode333.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter/X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Stupid Church Tricks: Making Anything Louder than the Gospel - Episode 332 Jan 24, 2024

Most churches start out on fire for their mission: to reach new people for Jesus. But as “new people” turn into “church people,” the voices on the inside of the church often become louder.

In this episode, Tony and Amy discuss the ways churches get off mission and become insider-focused and offer advice and inspiration on how to reverse this trajectory.

This Episode is Sponsored by PlainJoe Studios

PlainJoe: A Storyland Studio partners with churches, nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and educational environments to create unforgettable strategic, digital, and spatial stories that lift the Spirit. To learn more about working with PlainJoe’s team of down-to-earth specialists, architects, strategists, artists, and problem solvers, visit plainjoestudios.com/getunstuck.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode332.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter/X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Stupid Church Tricks: Complexity & Lack of Alignment - Episode 331 Jan 17, 2024

Often, well-intentioned churches add more programs believing it will lead to more growth. In reality, competing priorities ultimately lead to more complexity and a lack of alignment.

In this episode, Tony and Amy continue our series on Stupid Church Tricks—explaining what we can learn from them and how to avoid them.

This Episode is Sponsored by PlainJoe Studios

PlainJoe: A Storyland Studio partners with churches, nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and educational environments to create unforgettable strategic, digital, and spatial stories that lift the Spirit. To learn more about working with PlainJoe’s team of down-to-earth specialists, architects, strategists, artists, and problem solvers, visit plainjoestudios.com/getunstuck.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode331.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter/X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Stupid Church Tricks: Leadership & Staffing - Episode 330 Jan 10, 2024

Churches don’t try to sabotage their ministries on purpose. But these "stupid church tricks" are things we see happening in real churches all the time that we can’t believe are still happening.

In this episode, Tony and Amy unpack some of the stupid church tricks we've come across related to church leadership and staffing.

This Episode is Sponsored by PlainJoe Studios

PlainJoe: A Storyland Studio partners with churches, nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and educational environments to create unforgettable strategic, digital, and spatial stories that lift the Spirit. To learn more about working with PlainJoe’s team of down-to-earth specialists, architects, strategists, artists, and problem solvers, visit plainjoestudios.com/getunstuck.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode330.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter/X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Tony & Team Recap 2023 Church Trends & Look Forward - Episode 329 Jan 03, 2024

As we served over 100 churches on-site in 2023, several commons themes rose to the surface.

So, for our first episode of 2024, Tony sat down with the Unstuck team to recap what we’ve seen and learned this last year, as well as what we’re looking forward to in the new year.

This Episode is Sponsored by PlainJoe Studios

PlainJoe: A Storyland Studio partners with churches, nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and educational environments to create unforgettable strategic, digital, and spatial stories that lift the Spirit. To learn more about working with PlainJoe’s team of down-to-earth specialists, architects, strategists, artists, and problem solvers, visit plainjoestudios.com/getunstuck.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode329.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Best of 2023 – 5 Mistakes You're Making With Your Guest Services (Replay) - Episode 328 Dec 27, 2023

As 2023 comes to a close, we're revisiting some of the most popular episodes of The Unstuck Church Podcast this year.

In this popular episode, Tony sits down with Pastor Chad Hunt for a practical conversation around how churches can create an intentional guest services experience.

This Episode is Sponsored by Ministry Brands

Introducing Ministry Brands' brand new flagship solution, Ministry Brands Amplify: a cutting-edge all-in-one Church Ops solution helping empower healthy churches, connect, engage, and grow their Ministry while boosting member engagement, allowing church staff and volunteers to focus on their calling. Empower your Ministry today with this all-in-one Giving, People, Streaming, App Builder, and Website solution. Learn more.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode328.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Best of 2023 – 7 Reasons Why Large Churches Get Stuck (Replay) - Episode 327 Dec 20, 2023

As 2023 comes to a close, we're revisiting some of the most popular episodes of The Unstuck Church Podcast this year.

In this popular episode, Tony and Amy discuss breaking the 2-3,000 attendance barrier by exploring the common challenges that hold large churches back from future growth with some practical ideas on how to approach them.

This Episode is Sponsored by Ministry Brands

Introducing Ministry Brands' brand new flagship solution, Ministry Brands Amplify: a cutting-edge all-in-one Church Ops solution helping empower healthy churches, connect, engage, and grow their Ministry while boosting member engagement, allowing church staff and volunteers to focus on their calling. Empower your Ministry today with this all-in-one Giving, People, Streaming, App Builder, and Website solution. Learn more.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode327.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Best of 2023 – Are We Healthy Enough to Go Multisite? (Replay) - Episode 326 Dec 13, 2023

As 2023 comes to a close, we're revisiting some of the most popular episodes of The Unstuck Church Podcast this year.

How does a church know when it's ready to go multisite? In this popular episode, Tony and Amy discuss the key indicators that you are ready to expand through multisite—and one key indicator that you aren't.

Free Webinar: 3 Shifts to Turn Momentum Into Strategic Growth

We've helped hundreds of churches steward seasons of momentum growth into long-term sustained health. On December 14, Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson will help you avoid the common pitfalls of momentum growth and develop a plan for strategically moving forward into the long-term health God has for your church.

This Episode is Sponsored by Ministry Brands

Introducing Ministry Brands' brand new flagship solution, Ministry Brands Amplify: a cutting-edge all-in-one Church Ops solution helping empower healthy churches, connect, engage, and grow their Ministry while boosting member engagement, allowing church staff and volunteers to focus on their calling. Empower your Ministry today with this all-in-one Giving, People, Streaming, App Builder, and Website solution. Learn more.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode326.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Best of 2023 - Pruning: How Do We Know What to Stop? (Replay) - Episode 325 Dec 06, 2023

As 2023 comes to a close, we're revisiting some of the most popular episodes of The Unstuck Church Podcast this year.

The research is clear: Encouraging people to engage in more programs and church activity doesn’t produce spiritual growth. In this popular episode, Tony and Amy get practical on the steps churches must take in order to identify the programs and events they need to stop or pause.

Free Webinar: 3 Shifts to Turn Momentum Into Strategic Growth

We've helped hundreds of churches steward seasons of momentum growth into long-term sustained health. On December 14, Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson will help you avoid the common pitfalls of momentum growth and develop a plan for strategically moving forward into the long-term health God has for your church.

This Episode is Sponsored by Ministry Brands

Introducing Ministry Brands' brand new flagship solution, Ministry Brands Amplify: a cutting-edge all-in-one Church Ops solution helping empower healthy churches, connect, engage, and grow their Ministry while boosting member engagement, allowing church staff and volunteers to focus on their calling. Empower your Ministry today with this all-in-one Giving, People, Streaming, App Builder, and Website solution. Learn more.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode325.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

New Multisite Church Data & Trends: Q4 2023 Unstuck Church Report - Episode 324 Nov 29, 2023

Every quarter, The Unstuck Group compiles all the data we’ve collected to monitor trends in churches in the United States. For this Q4 2023 report, we are specifically focusing on trends in multisite churches.

In this episode, Tony and Amy break down new data on multisite churches and explain why some multisite strategies succeed and others fail.

You can subscribe to receive the quarterly report for free, or, if you're subscribed to the podcast show notes, we'll send it out to you for free, as well.

This Episode is Sponsored by Christian Financial Resources

Since 1980, Christian Financial Resources (CFR) has financed more than 950 ministry projects for independent churches in the United States. As your church grows, CFR is equipped to support your vision and your ministry with financial services tailored to meet the needs of independent churches—including capital campaigns, stewardship services, and loans for construction, building purchase, or real estate acquisition.

As your ministry continues to grow, consider how CFR can help your church cultivate a generosity mentality and raise more capital for your next project.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode324.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

How to Implement Your Bold Moves - Episode 323 Nov 22, 2023

Churches who succeed in their bold moves make an action plan and structure their team to implement that plan.

In this episode, Tony and Amy discuss why many churches struggle to implement bold moves, offer tips for making your bold moves actionable, and explain how to structure your team to successfully implement your bold moves.

This Episode is Sponsored by Planning Center

A lot of people in ministry feel overwhelmed by the amount of details they need to organize, volunteers they need to schedule, or events they need to plan to cultivate community. But Planning Center, an all-in-one church management system, can help you organize your ministries and give your congregants a place to engage. Anyone can sign up for the free plan of any product to try it out today at planningcenter.com!

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode323.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

How to Identify & Hire Standout Employees on Your Church Staff with William Vanderbloemen Nov 17, 2023

Your church staff team is the greatest asset you have for accomplishing your vision. So, when hiring new staff for your team, how can you find (and become) the standouts—the unicorns—with the traits that only the best of the best have?

In this bonus episode, Tony sits down with William Vanderbloemen to discuss how the findings in his new book, Be the Unicorn: 12 Data-Driven Habits that Separate the Best Leaders from the Rest, can empower senior and executive pastors to make better hiring decisions.

This Episode is Sponsored by PlainJoe Studios

PlainJoe: A Storyland Studio partners with churches, nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and educational environments to create unforgettable strategic, digital, and spatial stories that lift the Spirit. To learn more about working with PlainJoe’s team of down-to-earth specialists, architects, strategists, artists, and problem solvers, visit plainjoestudios.com/getunstuck.

For the full episode transcript and links mentioned during the show, visit this episode's Show Notes.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

When Bold Moves Succeed (and Why Others Fail) - Episode 322 Nov 15, 2023

The right bold moves will help your church reach more people for Jesus.

In this episode, Tony and Amy walk through four examples of successful bold moves that have led real churches to experience health and growth—and explain the common reasons why some bold moves fail.

Free Webinar: 4 Bold Moves for Churches & How to Make Them Happen

Ready to make a bold move in 2024? Join the Unstuck team and guests Derwin Gray, Rick Atchley, and Jonathan Smith on November 16 to help you clarify the next bold move God may be calling your church to make—and unpack the next steps to get there.

This Episode is Sponsored by Planning Center

A lot of people in ministry feel overwhelmed by the amount of details they need to organize, volunteers they need to schedule, or events they need to plan to cultivate community. But Planning Center, an all-in-one church management system, can help you organize your ministries and give your congregants a place to engage. Anyone can sign up for the free plan of any product to try it out today at planningcenter.com!

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode322.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

How to Clarify Your Next Bold Moves - Episode 321 Nov 08, 2023

When it comes to the future of our church, we all want to pursue God-sized dreams.

In this episode, Tony and Amy explain how to clarify your next bold move—including how to know if your goal is too bold or not bold enough—and how to begin communicating your bold moves once you’ve defined them.

Free Webinar: 4 Bold Moves for Churches & How to Make Them Happen

Ready to make a bold move in 2024? Join the Unstuck team and guests Derwin Gray, Rick Atchley, and Jonathan Smith on November 16 to help you clarify the next bold move God may be calling your church to make—and unpack the next steps to get there.

This Episode is Sponsored by BELAY

Between your ministry and your life at home, managing your time as a church leader can feel impossible. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, our friends at BELAY can help. Since time is the most valuable resource we have, BELAY wants to help you maximize it by offering our listeners an exclusive free download of their newest ebook, The Power of Productivity. Start making the most of the time you have each day and lead with BELAY.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode321.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Why Your Church Needs to Embrace Bold Moves - Episode 320 Nov 01, 2023

Having a clear bold move in front of us is the opposite of being stuck as a church. It’s how vision becomes actionable and the church continues to move forward.

In this episode, Tony and Amy discuss what a bold move is and why many churches fail to embrace them.

Free Webinar: 4 Bold Moves for Churches & How to Make Them Happen

Ready to make a bold move in 2024? Join the Unstuck team and guests Derwin Gray, Rick Atchley, and Jonathan Smith on November 16 to help you clarify the next bold move God may be calling your church to make—and unpack the next steps to get there.

This Episode is Sponsored by BELAY

Between your ministry and your life at home, managing your time as a church leader can feel impossible. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, our friends at BELAY can help. Since time is the most valuable resource we have, BELAY wants to help you maximize it by offering our listeners an exclusive free download of their newest ebook, The Power of Productivity. Start making the most of the time you have each day and lead with BELAY.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode320.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Navigating Changes on Your Senior Leadership Team - Episode 319 Oct 25, 2023

Even after a senior leadership team has been established, it's expected that this team will shift and change as the church grows.

In this episode, Tony and Amy explain how your senior leadership meetings should change as your church grows and offer advice for navigating personnel changes on your team.

This Episode is Sponsored by Ministry Brands

Introducing Ministry Brands' brand new flagship solution, Ministry Brands Amplify: a cutting-edge all-in-one Church Ops solution helping empower healthy churches, connect, engage, and grow their Ministry while boosting member engagement, allowing church staff and volunteers to focus on their calling. Empower your Ministry today with this all-in-one Giving, People, Streaming, App Builder, and Website solution. Learn more.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode319.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

7 Roles Your Senior Leadership Team Can't Delegate - Episode 318 Oct 18, 2023

The effectiveness of the senior leadership team impacts every aspect of the ministry.

In this episode, Tony and Amy outline the seven key roles of a senior leadership team and offer six tips for empowering your leaders.

This Episode is Sponsored by Ministry Brands

Introducing Ministry Brands' brand new flagship solution, Ministry Brands Amplify: a cutting-edge all-in-one Church Ops solution helping empower healthy churches, connect, engage, and grow their Ministry while boosting member engagement, allowing church staff and volunteers to focus on their calling. Empower your Ministry today with this all-in-one Giving, People, Streaming, App Builder, and Website solution. Learn more.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode318.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

How to Choose Your Senior Leadership Team - Episode 317 Oct 11, 2023

Often when churches are building a senior leadership team, the tendency is to invite team members based on their title or tenure—but the criteria for a healthy and effective senior leadership team goes much deeper than that.

In this episode, Tony and Amy offer practical guidelines and defining questions to help you identify the right leaders for your senior leadership team.

This Episode is Sponsored by Ministry Brands

Introducing Ministry Brands' brand new flagship solution, Ministry Brands Amplify: a cutting-edge all-in-one Church Ops solution helping empower healthy churches, connect, engage, and grow their Ministry while boosting member engagement, allowing church staff and volunteers to focus on their calling. Empower your Ministry today with this all-in-one Giving, People, Streaming, App Builder, and Website solution. Learn more.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode317.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Why Your Church Needs a Senior Leadership Team - Episode 316 Oct 04, 2023

The people who hold the senior leadership positions of your church are the best chance your church has to achieve the vision and mission God designed your church to accomplish at this moment in time.

In this episode, Tony and Amy dive into the importance of developing a healthy and effective senior leadership team on your church staff.

This Episode is Sponsored by Ministry Brands

Introducing Ministry Brands' brand new flagship solution, Ministry Brands Amplify: a cutting-edge all-in-one Church Ops solution helping empower healthy churches, connect, engage, and grow their Ministry while boosting member engagement, allowing church staff and volunteers to focus on their calling. Empower your Ministry today with this all-in-one Giving, People, Streaming, App Builder, and Website solution. Learn more.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode316.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Tony Morgan on 25 Years in Ministry - Bonus Episode Sep 29, 2023

25 years ago, Tony Morgan left his job in city management to enter full-time ministry.

In this bonus episode, Tony shares the story of how he got started in ministry, the people who encouraged him along in this path, the challenges he faced, and his biggest takeaway from 25 years in ministry.

For the full episode transcript, visit this episode's Show Notes here.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening when this episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Empowering Gen Z Leaders in the Church (with Chris Hodges & Mark Pettus) - Episode 315 Sep 27, 2023

Gen Z is now a crucial part of the workforce and on the front lines of ministry. So how can we effectively raise up Gen Z leaders for both ministry and leadership?

In the final episode of our series, Tony sits down with Chris Hodges (Lead Pastor of Church of the Highlands) and Mark Pettus (President of Highlands College) to discuss their strategies and advice for identifying and empowering the next generation of leaders.

Free Webinar: How to Structure Your Staff to Develop Next Gen Leaders

If we want the legacy of our leadership to outlive us, we have to focus on giving leadership away to the next generation. Join Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson on September 28 for this free 1-hour webinar where you’ll be empowered with the systems and strategies to confidently structure your church for future impact.

This Episode is Sponsored by Planning Center

A lot of people in ministry feel overwhelmed by the amount of details they need to organize, volunteers they need to schedule, or events they need to plan to cultivate community. But Planning Center, an all-in-one church management system, can help you organize your ministries and give your congregants a place to engage. Anyone can sign up for the free plan of any product to try it out today at planningcenter.com!

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode315.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Passing on Leadership to the Next Generation (with Carlos Cardenas) - Episode 314 Sep 20, 2023

The more leaders in the church can work together and learn from each other, the more opportunity grows for effective multi-generational ministry.

In this episode, Tony sits down with Carlos Cardenas, the Executive Pastor of Christ Fellowship Miami, to discuss what makes Millennials in leadership unique and how generations in the church can work together.

Free Webinar: How to Structure Your Staff to Develop Next Gen Leaders

If we want the legacy of our leadership to outlive us, we have to focus on giving leadership away to the next generation. Join Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson on September 28 for this free 1-hour webinar where you’ll be empowered with the systems and strategies to confidently structure your church for future impact.

This Episode is Sponsored by Planning Center

A lot of people in ministry feel overwhelmed by the amount of details they need to organize, volunteers they need to schedule, or events they need to plan to cultivate community. But Planning Center, an all-in-one church management system, can help you organize your ministries and give your congregants a place to engage. Anyone can sign up for the free plan of any product to try it out today at planningcenter.com!

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode314.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Creating a Culture of Leadership Development (with Sandals Church) - Episode 313 Sep 13, 2023

Developing the next generation is not just about having a program—it's a mindset.

In this episode, Tony sits down with Executive Pastor Dan Zimbardi and People and Culture Director Tim Hawley from Sandals Church (Riverside, CA) to discover how their team has created a successful leadership development model to raise up the next generation.

Free Webinar: How to Structure Your Staff to Develop Next Gen Leaders

If we want the legacy of our leadership to outlive us, we have to focus on giving leadership away to the next generation. Join Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson on September 28 for this free 1-hour webinar where you’ll be empowered with the systems and strategies to confidently structure your church for future impact.

This Episode is Sponsored by BELAY

Between your ministry and your life at home, managing your time as a church leader can feel impossible. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, our friends at BELAY can help. Since time is the most valuable resource we have, BELAY wants to help you maximize it by offering our listeners an exclusive free download of their newest ebook, The Power of Productivity. Start making the most of the time you have each day and lead with BELAY.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode313.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Addressing the Generation Gap on Your Team (with Tim Elmore) - Episode 312 Sep 06, 2023

Developing the next generation of leaders seems to be one of the most pressing challenges churches are facing today. That’s why we’re kicking off a brand new series all about how we can intentionally raise up and empower the next generation of leaders in our ministries.

In this episode, Tony sits down with Tim Elmore, Founder and CEO of Growing Leaders and author of A New Kind of Diversity: Making the Different Generations on Your Team a Competitive Advantage, to discuss how leaders can begin to address the generation gap on their teams.

Free Webinar: How to Structure Your Staff to Develop Next Gen Leaders

If we want the legacy of our leadership to outlive us, we have to focus on giving leadership away to the next generation. Join Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson on September 28 for this free 1-hour webinar where you’ll be empowered with the systems and strategies to confidently structure your church for future impact.

This Episode is Sponsored by BELAY

Between your ministry and your life at home, managing your time as a church leader can feel impossible. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, our friends at BELAY can help. Since time is the most valuable resource we have, BELAY wants to help you maximize it by offering our listeners an exclusive free download of their newest ebook, The Power of Productivity. Start making the most of the time you have each day and lead with BELAY.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode312.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Carey Nieuwhof on Future Church Trends - Bonus Episode Sep 01, 2023

"The best way to predict the future of the church is simply to look at the present." As many of us have learned in the last few years, predicting the future is hard. But what if current events could help us better understand (and prepare for) where we're headed?

In this bonus episode, Tony sits down with ministry thought leader Carey Nieuwhof to discuss current and future church trends.

For the full episode transcript and links mentioned during the show, visit this episode's Show Notes.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

Ask questions or add your comments about this topic using #unstuckchurch on Twitter, or join in on Facebook.

New Church Data & Trends: Q3 2023 Unstuck Church Report - Episode 311 Aug 30, 2023

Every quarter, The Unstuck Group releases The Unstuck Church Report to help church leaders monitor trends and benchmarks in key ministry areas. After all, a data point by itself doesn’t tell you much, but that data point tracked over time and compared to other metrics can begin to tell a story.

In this episode, Tony and Amy unpack the "story" this quarter's data is telling as well as some of the key findings from the Q3 2023 report.

You can subscribe to receive the quarterly report for free, or, if you're subscribed to the podcast show notes, we'll send it out to you for free, as well.

This Episode is Sponsored by Christian Financial Resources

Since 1980, Christian Financial Resources (CFR) has financed more than 950 ministry projects for independent churches in the United States. As your church grows, CFR is equipped to support your vision and your ministry with financial services tailored to meet the needs of independent churches—including capital campaigns, stewardship services, and loans for construction, building purchase, or real estate acquisition.

As your ministry continues to grow, consider how CFR can help your church cultivate a generosity mentality and raise more capital for your next project.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode311.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

2 More Roles a Senior Pastor Can’t Delegate - Episode 310 Aug 23, 2023

Great leaders don’t try to do everything themselves. But in order to delegate well, you have to start by identifying the key things only you can do.

In this episode, Tony and Amy wrap up our series on Sharpening Your Executive Leadership Skills with a conversation around the final two roles a senior pastor can't delegate.

Free Webinar: How to Sharpen Your Vision-Casting Skills

As your church grows and the world around it changes, your vision needs to be refreshed. Join Tony Morgan, Amy Anderson and friends on August 24 for this free 1-hour webinar where you’ll get re-energized to clarify your church’s vision and learn how to successfully rally your congregation around it.

This Episode is Sponsored by PlainJoe Studios

PlainJoe: A Storyland Studio partners with churches, nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and educational environments to create unforgettable strategic, digital, and spatial stories that lift the Spirit. To learn more about working with PlainJoe’s team of down-to-earth specialists, architects, strategists, artists, and problem solvers, visit plainjoestudios.com/getunstuck.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode310.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

2 Roles a Senior Pastor Can’t Delegate - Episode 309 Aug 16, 2023

Great leadership requires great delegation. If you’re a senior pastor, you can’t reach your potential (and your church can’t reach its potential) if you try to do everything yourself.

In this episode, Tony and Amy continue our series on sharpening your executive leadership skills with a conversation on two of the four key roles a senior pastor can't delegate.

Free Webinar: How to Sharpen Your Vision-Casting Skills

As your church grows and the world around it changes, your vision needs to be refreshed. Join Tony Morgan, Amy Anderson and friends on August 24 for this free 1-hour webinar where you’ll get re-energized to clarify your church’s vision and learn how to successfully rally your congregation around it.

This Episode is Sponsored by PlainJoe Studios

PlainJoe: A Storyland Studio partners with churches, nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and educational environments to create unforgettable strategic, digital, and spatial stories that lift the Spirit. To learn more about working with PlainJoe’s team of down-to-earth specialists, architects, strategists, artists, and problem solvers, visit plainjoestudios.com/getunstuck.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode309.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

One More Role an Executive Pastor Can’t Delegate - Episode 308 Aug 09, 2023

In last week's podcast, we unpacked the first two roles an Executive Pastor can’t delegate: making the vision actionable and driving core initiatives in order to free the senior pastor to focus on only the roles that they can be responsible for.

In this episode, we’ll discuss the third and final role an Executive Pastor can’t delegate—and unpack how that role plays out in their leadership.

This Episode is Sponsored by PlainJoe Studios

PlainJoe: A Storyland Studio partners with churches, nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and educational environments to create unforgettable strategic, digital, and spatial stories that lift the Spirit. To learn more about working with PlainJoe’s team of down-to-earth specialists, architects, strategists, artists, and problem solvers, visit plainjoestudios.com/getunstuck.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode308.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

2 Roles an Executive Pastor Can’t Delegate - Episode 307 Aug 02, 2023

When senior leaders are clear on their roles and their giftings complement each other, the church is well positioned for health and growth. On the other hand, when those same leaders don’t own the responsibilities they can't delegate, the vision and team begin to suffer.

This week, we’re kicking off a brand new series on “Sharpening Your Executive Leadership Skills” with a conversation on two key roles an executive pastor can't delegate.

This Episode is Sponsored by PlainJoe Studios

PlainJoe: A Storyland Studio partners with churches, nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and educational environments to create unforgettable strategic, digital, and spatial stories that lift the Spirit. To learn more about working with PlainJoe’s team of down-to-earth specialists, architects, strategists, artists, and problem solvers, visit plainjoestudios.com/getunstuck.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode307.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Addressing Mental Health In The Church - Bonus Episode Jul 28, 2023

If you knew that 90% of your congregation was struggling with an issue, how would you address it?

Over the last four weeks, we've been talking about the common mistakes churches make when it comes to their weekend experience—including offering sermons/teaching that provide no real life application.

In this bonus episode, Tony sits down with Pastor Rick Atchley (The Hills Church in Fort Worth, Texas) whose church did the opposite: they embraced felt-needs teaching by identifying the needs in their congregation and developing a nine-part sermon series on mental health.

You can watch Pastor Rick's series, Let's Talk About Mental Health, here.

For the full episode transcript and links mentioned during the show, visit this episode's Show Notes.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

Ask questions or add your comments about this topic using #unstuckchurch on Twitter, or join in on Facebook.

5 Mistakes You're Making with Your Children's Ministry - Episode 306 Jul 26, 2023

Nearly every pastor would agree that children’s ministry is a key part of their church’s ministry strategy—but oftentimes, we can unintentionally undermine our own efforts when we neglect this area or hire the wrong leaders to oversee it.

In this episode, Tony sits down with Stephanie Moreno, Director of Ministries at Christ Fellowship Miami, to discuss five common mistakes churches make when it comes to their children’s ministry and how they can effectively create a fun, safe, and secure environment for kids.

This Episode is Sponsored by The Church Lawyers

The Church Lawyers’ Client Member program was created for organizations just like yours. Whether governance, employment, litigation, or other matters, let The Church Lawyers walk alongside you as you navigate legal issues facing your ministry. Sign up for the The Church Lawyers’ Client Member program today at thechurchlawyers.com.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode306. Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

5 Mistakes You're Making with Your Physical Space - Episode 305 Jul 19, 2023

When it comes to creating a great experience for new people visiting our church, one of the most overlooked resources is our facility. Fortunately, this is one area where small intentional changes can make a big difference.

In this episode, we're joined by Phil Taylor, Executive Producer of PlainJoe Studios, for a conversation about the five mistakes churches make when it comes to their space and how they can design a more cohesive, positive experience.

This Episode is Sponsored by The Church Laywers

The Church Lawyers’ Client Member program was created for organizations just like yours. Whether governance, employment, litigation, or other matters, let The Church Lawyers walk alongside you as you navigate legal issues facing your ministry. Sign up for the The Church Lawyers’ Client Member program today at thechurchlawyers.com.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode305. Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

5 Mistakes You're Making With Your Guest Services - Episode 304 Jul 12, 2023

A positive guest experience is one of the key areas that sets growing, healthy churches apart.

That's why, this week, we'll continue our series on common mistakes churches make on the weekend with a conversation around creating an intentional guest services experience. This Episode is Sponsored by BELAY It’s easy to feel like we have to do it all. But doing it all is not only impossible—it’s a recipe for burnout. If you feel like you’re overwhelmed trying to do it all, BELAY can help: BELAY is a modern church staffing organization with fractional, U.S.-based Accounting and Virtual Assistant services. They’ve spent over a decade helping busy leaders just like you accomplish more and juggle less. To help you learn what you can start delegating today, BELAY is offering a free resource for our audience, the Top 25 Tasks a Pastor Can Delegate to an Assistant. (Message and data rates may apply. Terms & privacy: slkt.io/4OdL.) For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode304. Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

5 Mistakes You're Making with Your Weekend Services - Episode 303 Jul 05, 2023

In this new series, we're unpacking “Mistakes You’re Making in Your Weekend Experience"—helping churches identify 5 common mistakes in the areas of their worship service, guest services, kids ministry, and facilities and offering solutions to elevate their weekend experience. In this episode, Tony and Amy discuss five common mistakes churches make when it comes to their weekend worship services—and how to fix them. This Episode is Sponsored by BELAY It’s easy to feel like we have to do it all. But doing it all is not only impossible—it’s a recipe for burnout. If you feel like you’re overwhelmed trying to do it all, BELAY can help: BELAY is a modern church staffing organization with fractional, U.S.-based Accounting and Virtual Assistant services. They’ve spent over a decade helping busy leaders just like you accomplish more and juggle less. To help you learn what you can start delegating today, BELAY is offering a free resource for our audience, the Top 25 Tasks a Pastor Can Delegate to an Assistant. (Message and data rates may apply. Terms & privacy: slkt.io/4OdL.) For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode303.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Pressing Questions: Listener Q&A - Episode 302 Jun 28, 2023

We've dedicated a whole series to “Pressing Questions for Pastors in 2023," answering some of the known questions pastors are wondering about in this season. Now, as we wrap up our series, we wanted to hear from you.

In this episode, Tony and Amy answer the most pressing questions about ministry/ministry leadership our listeners are asking this year—from governance, to second-chair leadership, and more.

This Episode is Sponsored by PlainJoe Studios

PlainJoe: A Storyland Studio partners with churches, nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and educational environments to create unforgettable strategic, digital, and spatial stories that lift the Spirit. And PlainJoe is hosting the PlainJoe Design Intervention giveaway, where one winner will receive the grand prize: 200 hours of design services from PlainJoe, for free!

Visit plainjoestudios.com for more information. And if you're ready to rethink your buildings, logos, or website experience to take your organization to the next level, consider PlainJoe.

Free Webinar: How to Re-Engage Your Church in the Mission on June 29

Your congregation today is not your pre-pandemic congregation. At this one-time live event, Tony Morgan & Amy Anderson will teach you the practical strategies needed to reignite your church’s passion and purpose for living on mission in this season. Register now.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode302.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Pressing Questions: Increasing Engagement & Reaching the Next Generation - Episode 301 Jun 21, 2023

We spend a lot of time talking about systems and strategies, but they’re all a means to an end of achieving one goal: helping more people meet and follow Jesus, develop meaningful relationships with other believers, and get involved in the mission of the church.

This week, we're answering questions about how churches can do that more effectively by encouraging real engagement in their church and shifting towards multi-generation ministry.

This Episode is Sponsored by PlainJoe Studios

PlainJoe: A Storyland Studio partners with churches, nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and educational environments to create unforgettable strategic, digital, and spatial stories that lift the Spirit. And PlainJoe is hosting the PlainJoe Design Intervention giveaway, where one winner will receive the grand prize: 200 hours of design services from PlainJoe, for free!

Visit plainjoestudios.com for more information. And if you're ready to rethink your buildings, logos, or website experience to take your organization to the next level, consider PlainJoe.

Free Webinar: How to Re-Engage Your Church in the Mission on June 29

Your congregation today is not your pre-pandemic congregation. At this one-time live event, Tony Morgan & Amy Anderson will teach you the practical strategies needed to reignite your church’s passion and purpose for living on mission in this season. Register now.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode301.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Pressing Questions: Digital Strategy & Volunteer Engagement - Episode 300 Jun 14, 2023

This week marks 300 episodes of The Unstuck Church Podcast, and we're grateful for the opportunity to continue the conversation about growing healthy churches every single week!

In this episode, Tony and Amy continue our series answering some of the most pressing questions we hear from church leaders by discussing digital strategy and volunteer engagement.

This Episode is Sponsored by PlainJoe Studios

PlainJoe: A Storyland Studio partners with churches, nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and educational environments to create unforgettable strategic, digital, and spatial stories that lift the Spirit. And PlainJoe is hosting the PlainJoe Design Intervention giveaway, where one winner will receive the grand prize: 200 hours of design services from PlainJoe, for free!

Visit plainjoestudios.com for more information. And if you're ready to rethink your buildings, logos, or website experience to take your organization to the next level, consider PlainJoe.

Free Webinar: How to Re-Engage Your Church in the Mission on June 29

Your congregation today is not your pre-pandemic congregation. At this one-time live event, Tony Morgan & Amy Anderson will teach you the practical strategies needed to reignite your church’s passion and purpose for living on mission in this season. Register now.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode300.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Pressing Questions: Succession Planning & Making Bold Moves - Episode 299 Jun 07, 2023

Our goal for The Unstuck Church Podcast is always to answer the most pressing and relevant questions that pastors are asking.

In this episode, Tony and Amy kick off our new series answering some of the most pressing questions we hear from church leaders in this season with a conversation on succession planning and making bold moves.

This Episode is Sponsored by PlainJoe Studios

PlainJoe: A Storyland Studio partners with churches, nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and educational environments to create unforgettable strategic, digital, and spatial stories that lift the Spirit. And PlainJoe is hosting the PlainJoe Design Intervention giveaway, where one winner will receive the grand prize: 200 hours of design services from PlainJoe, for free!

Visit plainjoestudios.com for more information. And if you're ready to rethink your buildings, logos, or website experience to take your organization to the next level, consider PlainJoe.

Free Webinar: How to Re-Engage Your Church in the Mission on June 29

Your congregation today is not your pre-pandemic congregation. At this one-time live event, Tony Morgan & Amy Anderson will teach you the practical strategies needed to reignite your church’s passion and purpose for living on mission in this season. Register now.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode299.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

New Church Staffing Trends: Q2 2023 Unstuck Church Report - Episode 298 May 31, 2023

Every quarter, The Unstuck Group releases The Unstuck Church Report to help church leaders monitor trends and benchmarks in key ministry areas. In this episode, Tony and Amy walk through the data and trends from our Q2 2023 staffing-focused report, including staffing insights by ministry type, generation, and more.

You can subscribe to receive the quarterly report for free, or, if you're subscribed to the podcast show notes, we'll send it out to you for free, as well.

This Episode is Sponsored by Christian Financial Resources

Since 1980, Christian Financial Resources (CFR) has financed more than 950 ministry projects for independent churches in the United States. As your church grows, CFR is equipped to support your vision and your ministry with financial services tailored to meet the needs of independent churches—including capital campaigns, stewardship services, and loans for construction, building purchase, or real estate acquisition.

As your ministry continues to grow, consider how CFR can help your church cultivate a generosity mentality and raise more capital for your next project.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode298.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

7 Reasons Why Very Large Churches Get Stuck - Episode 297 May 24, 2023

On the surface, it might seem like churches with several thousands of people in attendance don't face any new barriers to growth—however, even very large churches can get stuck and hit a plateau.

In this final episode of our series, we'll discuss breaking the 10,000 barrier by exploring common growth barriers that affect churches with thousands in attendance.

This Episode is Sponsored by Planning Center

Planning Center is an all-in-one church management system that gives you the tools you need to organize your ministries and give your congregants a place to engage. Go to planningcenter.com and start your 30-day free trial today.

Free Webinar: Church Growth Barriers on May 25

If your ministry has hit a plateau or you feel there’s something holding your church back from the next level of growth, this webinar is designed to help you identify that core issue and find your next step towards health. Register now.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode297.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

7 Reasons Why Large Churches Get Stuck - Episode 296 May 17, 2023

Some common issues hold true for churches of all denominations and expressions as they grow beyond 1,000 and face an entirely new set of challenges as they near 2-3,000 mark.

In this episode, we'll discuss breaking the 2-3,000 barrier by exploring the common challenges that hold large churches back from future growth with some practical ideas on how to approach them.

This Episode is Sponsored by Planning Center

Planning Center is an all-in-one church management system that gives you the tools you need to organize your ministries and give your congregants a place to engage. Go to planningcenter.com and start your 30-day free trial today.

Free Webinar: Church Growth Barriers on May 25

If your ministry has hit a plateau or you feel there’s something holding your church back from the next level of growth, this webinar is designed to help you identify that core issue and find your next step towards health. Register now.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode296.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

7 Reasons Why Mid-Size Churches Get Stuck - Episode 295 May 10, 2023

Different churches wrestle with different issues, but many times those challenges are a reflection of the church’s size.

In this episode, we discuss breaking the 1,000 barrier by exploring what challenges get many mid-size churches stuck and providing practical wisdom for moving forward.

This Episode is Sponsored by BELAY

If you’re overwhelmed trying to do it all, BELAY can help. BELAY, a modern church staffing organization with fractional, U.S.-based Accounting and Virtual Assistant services, has helped busy church leaders do just that for more than a decade. To help you figure out where to start, BELAY is offering a free resource to guide you through what tasks you should delegate. Get out of the administrative weeds and back to growing your organization with BELAY.

Free Webinar: Church Growth Barriers on May 25

If your ministry has hit a plateau or you feel there’s something holding your church back from the next level of growth, this webinar is designed to help you identify that core issue and find your next step towards health. Register now.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode295.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

7 Reasons Why Small Churches Get Stuck - Episode 294 May 03, 2023

We want all churches, regardless of their size today, to be healthy and to experience growth. That’s why in this new series, we’re going to discuss how to break common growth barriers for churches of four different sizes: small, mid-size, large, and very large.

In this episode, Tony and Amy will walk through seven common reasons that small churches get stuck and offer practical ideas for breaking into the next season of growth.

This Episode is Sponsored by BELAY

If you’re overwhelmed trying to do it all, BELAY can help. BELAY, a modern church staffing organization with fractional, U.S.-based Accounting and Virtual Assistant services, has helped busy church leaders do just that for more than a decade. To help you figure out where to start, BELAY is offering a free resource to guide you through what tasks you should delegate. Get out of the administrative weeds and back to growing your organization with BELAY.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode294.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

How One Church Overcame Decline and Got Unstuck - Bonus Episode Apr 28, 2023

As we conclude our series on the Challenges of the Church Lifecycle, we wanted to share the story of a real church that overcame the challenges of decline and got back to sustained health.

In this bonus interview, Tony sits down with David Emery, the lead pastor of Harvard Avenue Christian Church (Tulsa, OK), to discuss how they overcame decline, leadership change, and even the pandemic to find a new season of health, growth, and joy in ministry.

For the full episode transcript and links mentioned during the show, visit this episode's Show Notes.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

Ask questions or add your comments about this topic using #unstuckchurch on Twitter, or join in on Facebook.

The Challenges of Church Decline - Episode 293 Apr 26, 2023

The majority of churches today self-assess that their church is currently in decline and on the right side of the lifecycle in maintenance, preservation, or life support.

In this episode, Tony and Amy wrap up our series by walking through the key challenges of the declining side of the lifecycle and offering next steps for moving back to health.

Unsure where your church sits on the church lifecycle? Take the free Unstuck Church Assessment.

This Episode is Sponsored by PlainJoe Studios

PlainJoe: A Storyland Studio partners with churches, nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and educational environments to create unforgettable strategic, digital, and spatial stories that lift the Spirit. To learn more about working with PlainJoe’s team of down-to-earth specialists, architects, strategists, artists, and problem solvers, visit plainjoestudios.com/getunstuck.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode293.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

The Challenges of Sustained Health - Episode 292 Apr 19, 2023

Rather than focusing on maintaining the status quo, the priority focus of churches in sustained health should be multiplying and reproducing at all levels.

In this episode, Tony and Amy will break down the four key challenges of churches in sustained health and how to address them.

Unsure where your church sits on the church lifecycle? Take the free Unstuck Church Assessment.

This Episode is Sponsored by PlainJoe Studios

PlainJoe: A Storyland Studio partners with churches, nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and educational environments to create unforgettable strategic, digital, and spatial stories that lift the Spirit. To learn more about working with PlainJoe’s team of down-to-earth specialists, architects, strategists, artists, and problem solvers, visit plainjoestudios.com/getunstuck.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode292.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

The Challenges of Church Growth - Episode 291 Apr 12, 2023

Regardless of their uniqueness, every church has the potential to go through a very similar lifecycle: Most churches start, grow, thrive, decline, and eventually end. But God's plan for our churches is to mature to a place of sustained health.

In this episode, Tony and Amy are unpacking the challenges that come with the lifecycle phases of launch, momentum growth, and strategic growth, and how to overcome them.

Unsure where your church sits on the church lifecycle? Take the free Unstuck Church Assessment.

This Episode is Sponsored by PlainJoe Studios

PlainJoe: A Storyland Studio partners with churches, nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and educational environments to create unforgettable strategic, digital, and spatial stories that lift the Spirit. To learn more about working with PlainJoe’s team of down-to-earth specialists, architects, strategists, artists, and problem solvers, visit plainjoestudios.com/getunstuck.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode291.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

The Biggest Challenge of Multisite Expansion - Episode 290 Mar 29, 2023

When thinking about multisite expansion, most churches are not short of people to reach, new locations to open, or even money to expand. The biggest challenge impacting future multisite expansion is the lack of leaders to launch a new location—while still having leaders to serve existing locations.

In this episode, Tony and Amy are wrapping up our multisite series with a conversation explaining the importance of leadership development for multisite health and outlining the unique characteristics of a campus pastor.

Free Webinar: "Multisite Better" on March 30

Want to avoid multisite misery? In this free webinar, Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson will teach you proven strategies for better multisite results and help clarify your healthiest way forward. Register now.

This Episode is Sponsored by Horizons Stewardship

Horizons Stewardship is a team of generosity specialists, coaching professionals, and ministry strategists. Their data-informed strategies have helped thousands of churches raise billions for over three decades. Visit nextlevelgenerosity.com today to learn more.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode290.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Mistakes to Avoid When Launching a New Campus - Episode 289 Mar 22, 2023

As churches consider adding new campuses, they need to establish a process for identifying new locations, hiring staff and building teams, and launching at the right time.

In this episode, Tony and Amy will identify several common mistakes and best practices for churches who are considering launching a new campus in the coming months.

Free Webinar: "Multisite Better" on March 30

Want to avoid multisite misery? In this free webinar, Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson will teach you proven strategies for better multisite results and help clarify your healthiest way forward. Register now.

This Episode is Sponsored by Planning Center

Planning Center is all-in-one church management system that gives you the tools you need to organize your ministries and give your congregants a place to engage. Go to planningcenter.com and start your 30-day free trial today.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode289.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Finding Alignment Around Your Multisite Strategy - Episode 288 Mar 15, 2023

How do churches considering multisite find alignment around their strategies before launching new locations? And how do they maintain that alignment after the fact?

In this episode, Tony and Amy continue our series on multisite strategy with a conversation on the importance of strategic alignment for multisite churches.

Free Webinar: "Multisite Better" on March 30

Want to avoid multisite misery? In this free webinar, Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson will teach you proven strategies for better multisite results and help clarify your healthiest way forward. Register now.

This Episode is Sponsored by Planning Center

Planning Center is all-in-one church management system that gives you the tools you need to organize your ministries and give your congregants a place to engage. Go to planningcenter.com and start your 30-day free trial today.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode288.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Are We Healthy Enough to Go Multisite? - Episode 287 Mar 08, 2023

Whether you’re preparing to expand through multisite or you’re an existing multisite church, this new podcast series will walk you through the process to help you prepare now for future multisite expansion—whether that’s launching your first or your fifth campus.

In this episode, Tony and Amy discuss the key indicators that you are ready to expand through multisite—and one key indicator that you aren't.

Free Webinar: "Multisite Better" on March 30

Want to avoid multisite misery? In this free webinar, Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson will teach you proven strategies for better multisite results and help clarify your healthiest way forward. Register now.

This Episode is Sponsored by BELAY

Great leaders delegate. With BELAY's free Leadership Toolkit, you’ll learn the necessary steps every leader needs to accomplish more and juggle less. No one can do it alone. Get the support you need to get out of the administrative weeds, and back to growing your organization with BELAY.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode287.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

What's Working In Large Churches Now - Episode 286 Mar 01, 2023

Does it feel unclear what “works” in ministry on this side of the pandemic?

This week, we’re sharing the replay of a recent webinar conversation where Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson sat down with lead pastors Chris Hodges (Church of the Highlands), Miles McPherson (Rock Church), and Omar Giritli (Christ Fellowship in Miami) to discuss what’s actually working in their large now churches to reach new people and engage people in the life of the church a few years post-pandemic.

This Episode is Sponsored by BELAY

Great leaders delegate. With BELAY's free Leadership Toolkit, you’ll learn the necessary steps every leader needs to accomplish more and juggle less.

No one can do it alone. Get the support you need to get out of the administrative weeds, and back to growing your organization with BELAY.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode286.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

New Church Data & Trends: Q1 2023 Unstuck Church Report - Episode 285 Feb 22, 2023

Every quarter, The Unstuck Group releases The Unstuck Church Report to help church leaders monitor trends and benchmarks in key areas like ministry reach, connections, staffing and structure, and finances. In this episode, Tony and Amy walk through some of the newest trends and benchmarks from our Q1 2023 report, including insights on the differences between growing and declining/plateaued churches.

You can subscribe to receive the quarterly report for free, or, if you're subscribed to the podcast show notes, we'll send it out to you for free, as well.

This Episode is Sponsored by Christian Financial Resources

As your church grows, CFR is equipped to support your vision and your ministry with financial services tailored to meet the needs of independent churches. When your church partners with Christian Financial Resources, you’ll receive sustainable financial services that will save you money every month, helping you put more dollars into ministry. Learn more.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode285.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

How Large Churches Are Shaping a Strong Culture - Episode 284 Feb 15, 2023

Healthy churches are clear on the type of culture they want to create in their ministry. Their leadership intentionally hires, evaluates, and celebrates based on this culture.

In this episode, Tony and Amy are wrapping up our series on what's working in large churches with a conversation on how these churches are shaping a strong culture on their team—and how that culture leads to a healthy culture in their church.

Free Webinar: What's Working in Large Churches Now on February 23

Register now to join the conversation as Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson sit down with senior leaders Chris Hodges (Church of the Highlands), Omar Giritli (Christ Fellowship Church in Miami), and Miles McPherson (Rock Church) to discuss what’s actually working in their large churches now.

This Episode is Sponsored by PlainJoe Studios

PlainJoe Studios is an experience design group who loves making practical solutions available for churches like yours. To learn more about working with PlainJoe’s team of down-to-earth specialists, artists, architects, strategists and problem solvers, visit plainjoestudios.com/getunstuck.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode284.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

How Large Churches Are Leveraging a Multisite Strategy - Episode 283 Feb 08, 2023

Our research has found that churches engaging a multisite strategy tend to be healthier in many key areas than other churches, and it’s clear that more large churches are using the strategy to increase health and growth.

In this episode, Tony and Amy unpack multisite insights and best practices from Transformation Church, Sun Valley Community Church, and North Point Community Church.

Free Webinar: What's Working in Large Churches Now on February 23

Register now to join the conversation as Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson sit down with senior leaders Chris Hodges (Church of the Highlands), Omar Giritli (Christ Fellowship Church in Miami), and Miles McPherson (Rock Church) to discuss what’s actually working in their large churches now.

This Episode is Sponsored by PlainJoe Studios

PlainJoe Studios is an experience design group who loves making practical solutions available for churches like yours. To learn more about working with PlainJoe’s team of down-to-earth specialists, artists, architects, strategists and problem solvers, visit plainjoestudios.com/getunstuck.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode283.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

How Large Churches Are Encouraging Engagement Beyond Sunday - Episode 282 Feb 01, 2023

While it’s true that many churches are seeing new faces on the weekend, churches often struggle to then engage those new people beyond Sunday morning.

In this episode, Tony and Amy continue our series on what's working in large churches by sharing stories and strategies for helping people take a next step beyond Sunday.

Free Webinar: What's Working in Large Churches Now on February 23

Register now to join the conversation as Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson sit down with senior leaders Chris Hodges (Church of the Highlands), Omar Giritli (Christ Fellowship Church in Miami), and Miles McPherson (Rock Church) to discuss what’s actually working in their large churches now.

This Episode is Sponsored by The Church Laywers

The Church Lawyers’ Client Member program was created for organizations just like yours. Whether governance, employment, litigation, or other matters, let The Church Lawyers walk alongside you as you navigate legal issues facing your ministry. Sign up for the The Church Lawyers’ Client Member program today at thechurchlawyers.com.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode282.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

How Large Churches Are Widening Their Front Door - Episode 281 Jan 25, 2023

This week, we’re kicking off a series focused on what's working in large churches across the U.S., sharing insights from Christ Fellowship in Miami, Transformation Church near Charlotte, Sun Valley Community Church in Phoenix, and North Point Community Church in Atlanta.

In this episode, Tony and Amy unpack the strategies these four churches are using to widen their front door and invite more people to follow Jesus.

Though this series is focused on what's working in larger churches, most of these learnings are still going to be applicable no matter what size church you're leading.

Free Webinar: What's Working in Large Churches Now on February 23

Register now to join the conversation as Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson sit down with senior leaders Chris Hodges (Church of the Highlands), Omar Giritli (Christ Fellowship Church in Miami), and Miles McPherson (Rock Church) to discuss what’s actually working in their large churches now.

This Episode is Sponsored by The Church Laywers

The Church Lawyers’ Client Member program was created for organizations just like yours. Whether governance, employment, litigation, or other matters, let The Church Lawyers walk alongside you as you navigate legal issues facing your ministry. Sign up for the The Church Lawyers’ Client Member program today at thechurchlawyers.com.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode281.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Pruning: How to Bury a Ministry Program & Communicate Change - Episode 280 Jan 18, 2023

Once you’ve built consensus on your team and gained clarity about what to prune, how should pastors and church leaders appropriately “bury a ministry” and communicate the change?

In this episode, Tony & Amy talk through proven strategies to move forward in the pruning process with consideration and courage.

This Episode is Sponsored by BELAY

Poorly managed church finances can hurt a pastor’s ability to lead church members and reach the local community. To help you figure out where to start, BELAY is offering its resource, 4 Costly Financial Mistakes for Churches, to our listeners for free to help you identify the four biggest things that wreck churches when it comes to their finances—and what you can do to avoid them. To learn more, visit belaysolutions.com.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode280.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Pruning: How Do We Know What to Stop? - Episode 279 Jan 11, 2023

The research is clear: encouraging people to engage in more programs and church activity doesn’t produce spiritual growth. If we’re truly in the disciple-making business, then adding more programs and events is actually working against church health.

In this episode, Tony and Amy are getting practical on the steps churches must take in order to identify the programs and events they need to stop or pause in 2023.

This Episode is Sponsored by BELAY

Poorly managed church finances can hurt a pastor’s ability to lead church members and reach the local community. To help you figure out where to start, BELAY is offering its resource, 4 Costly Financial Mistakes for Churches, to our listeners for free to help you identify the four biggest things that wreck churches when it comes to their finances—and what you can do to avoid them. To learn more, visit belaysolutions.com.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode279.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Pruning: Introducing the 2023 Unstuck Church Get Healthy Again Challenge - Episode 278 Jan 04, 2023

The beginning of a new year means new goals, dreams, and resolutions. This year, The Unstuck Group wants to help you get your church as healthy as it's ever been, too!

This week, Tony and Amy are kicking off a new series on Pruning and introducing the “2023 Unstuck Church Get Healthy Again Challenge.” In this episode, they'll start by explaining why pruning matters and start to identify things that need to be stopped or shed in order to get healthy.

This Episode is Sponsored by BELAY

Poorly managed church finances can hurt a pastor’s ability to lead church members and reach the local community. To help you figure out where to start, BELAY is offering its resource, 4 Costly Financial Mistakes for Churches, to our listeners for free to help you identify the four biggest things that wreck churches when it comes to their finances—and what you can do to avoid them. To learn more, visit belaysolutions.com.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode277.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Best of 2022: Do We Really Need to Keep (or Start) Doing Digital Ministry? (Replay) - Episode 277 Dec 28, 2022

As 2022 comes to a close, we're revisiting some of the most downloaded episodes of The Unstuck Church Podcast this year!

Many churches tried to ignore digital ministry for as long as we could and, even now, many of us are still trying to avoid it. In this popular episode, Tiffany Deluccia joins us to discuss whether digital ministry still matters and how churches can get started (or get better) at it.

This Episode is Sponsored by BELAY

BELAY’s modern staffing solutions have been helping busy church leaders delegate important details for over a decade. Now BELAY is offering its resource, 30 Things A BELAY VA Can Do For You, to our listeners for free to help you get started with a list of commonly delegated tasks that you can hand over. To learn more, visit belaysolutions.com.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode277.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Best of 2022: Is This the New Normal for Giving and Attendance? (Replay) - Episode 276 Dec 21, 2022

As 2022 comes to a close, we're revisiting some of the most downloaded episodes of The Unstuck Church Podcast this year!

Great leaders ask great questions—and we get plenty of great questions from our listeners and clients every week. In this popular episode, Tony and Amy unpack their thoughts on the commonly-asked question: Is this the new normal for attendance and giving?

This Episode is Sponsored by BELAY

BELAY’s modern staffing solutions have been helping busy church leaders delegate important details for over a decade. Now BELAY is offering its resource, 30 Things A BELAY VA Can Do For You, to our listeners for free to help you get started with a list of commonly delegated tasks that you can hand over. To learn more, visit belaysolutions.com.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode276.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Best of 2022: Signs You Need to Restructure - Overstaffing (Replay) - Episode 275 Dec 14, 2022

As 2022 comes to a close, we're revisiting some of the most downloaded episodes of The Unstuck Church Podcast this year!

Churches generally have lower attendance than they had three years ago, but they haven’t reduced staffing to reflect the current attendance patterns. In this popular episode, Tony and Amy explain why overstaffing is a key sign that your church needs to restructure its staff.

This Episode is Sponsored by BELAY

BELAY’s modern staffing solutions have been helping busy church leaders delegate important details for over a decade. Now BELAY is offering its resource, 30 Things A BELAY VA Can Do For You, to our listeners for free to help you get started with a list of commonly delegated tasks that you can hand over. To learn more, visit belaysolutions.com.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode275.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Best of 2022: The Core Issues Of Multisite (Replay) - Episode 274 Dec 07, 2022

As 2022 comes to a close, we're revisiting some of the most downloaded episodes of The Unstuck Church Podcast this year.

Not all multisite strategies produce the same results. In this episode replay, Tony and Amy walk through some of the core issues in popular multisite models that lead to dysfunction and disunity among campuses.

This Episode is Sponsored by BELAY

BELAY’s modern staffing solutions have been helping busy church leaders delegate important details for over a decade. Now BELAY is offering its resource, 30 Things A BELAY VA Can Do For You, to our listeners for free to help you get started with a list of commonly delegated tasks that you can hand over. To learn more, visit belaysolutions.com.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode274.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

New Church Finance & Staffing Data: Q4 2022 Unstuck Church Report - Episode 273 Nov 30, 2022

Every quarter, The Unstuck Group compiles all the data we’ve collected to monitor trends in churches in the United States and around the world. Given current economic conditions, we decided to focus this quarter’s report on church finance and staffing trends specifically.

In this episode, Tony and Amy are walking through key findings from our Q4 2022 report, fueled by data from over 400 churches across the world.

You can subscribe to receive the quarterly report for free, or, if you're subscribed to the podcast show notes, we'll send it out to you for free, as well.

This Episode is Sponsored by Church Central Office:

Church Central Office focuses on your finances so you can focus on ministry. With Church Central Office, you’ll receive dedicated finance management and reporting, advice on budgeting and forecasting, and trusted council for all your accounting needs. Learn more here.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode273.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation the Unstuck team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter, or you can join in on Facebook.

Church Governance: Improving Church Bylaws & Board Policies (Interview with David Middlebrook, The Church Lawyers) - Episode 272 Nov 23, 2022

Bylaws and board policies may not be the most exciting topic, but they do play a key role in helping your church board operate effectively.

In this episode, David Middlebrook from The Church Lawyers joins us to discuss common governance mistakes churches make, the three fiduciary duties of a church board member, and encouragement for making positive change in your church.

This Episode is Sponsored by BELAY

BELAY’s modern staffing solutions have been helping busy church leaders delegate important details for over a decade. BELAY is offering its latest book, Lead Anyone From Anywhere, to our listeners for free. To learn more, visit belaysolutions.com.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode272.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Church Governance: Moving from Meetings to Ministry - Episode 271 Nov 16, 2022

The best volunteer engagement strategies will only work within the right governance framework.

In this episode, Sean and Tony unpack three strategies to tackle governance problems and encourage more people to move from meetings into ministry.

Webinar: How to Get Your Church Governance Unstuck

On December 1, Tony Morgan, Amy Anderson, and special guests will help you identify the governance issues that may be holding your church back from healthy growth in 2023. Register for free now!

This Episode is Sponsored by BELAY

BELAY’s modern staffing solutions have been helping busy church leaders delegate important details for over a decade. BELAY is offering its latest book, Lead Anyone From Anywhere, to our listeners for free. To learn more, visit belaysolutions.com.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode271.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Church Governance: The Role of the Board vs. the Staff - Episode 270 Nov 09, 2022

More often than not, when a church is stuck because of their governance model, the issues come back to lack of role clarity for both the board and the staff.

This week, we’ll discuss how churches can empower their pastor and staff by clarifying the qualifications for board members and role of the board itself.

Webinar: How to Get Your Church Governance Unstuck

On December 1, Tony Morgan, Amy Anderson, and special guests will help you identify the governance issues that may be holding your church back from healthy growth in 2023. Register for free now!

This Episode is Sponsored by Horizons Stewardship

Horizons Stewardship is a team of generosity specialists, coaching professionals, and ministry strategists. Their data-informed strategies have helped thousands of churches raise billions for over three decades. Visit nextlevelgenerosity.com today to learn more.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode270.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Church Governance: Structuring for Unity - Episode 269 Nov 02, 2022

In our work with hundreds of churches, we’ve found time and time again that poor governance structures lead to stuck churches.

In part one of our new series on "Effective Church Boards & Governance Models," Tony and Amy will be unpacking four common church board mistakes—and explaining how boards and governance models can instead be designed to encourage unity rather than division.

Webinar: How to Get Your Church Governance Unstuck

On December 1, Tony Morgan, Amy Anderson, and special guests will help you identify the governance issues that may be holding your church back from healthy growth in 2023. Register for free now!

This Episode is Sponsored by ServeHQ

ServeHQ has simple video training courses to help you equip volunteers and develop leaders. You can create your own training or use their video library, and you can even automate next steps to onboard new people. Check it out at ServeHQ.church.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode269.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 269] in your post for reference.

You Don't Need More Christian Education - Episode 268 Oct 26, 2022

Most of us don't need more teaching and study on what Jesus modeled for us—we need more opportunities to put into practice what we've already learned.

In this episode, Tony and Amy explain why (rather than focusing on providing more education) the healthiest churches balance both reach and discipleship strategies—and share some practical ideas of how your church can, too.

This Episode is Sponsored by Planning Center

Planning Center is all-in-one church management software where you can organize your ministries and give your congregants a place to connect and get involved. Learn what else you can do at planningcenter.com and get a 30-day free trial to start exploring for yourself!

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode268.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 268] in your post for reference.

You Don't Need A Vision Statement - Episode 267 Oct 19, 2022

While clarifying direction for the future is critical to the health of your church, traditional vision statements are not always helpful—especially in this particular season.

In this episode, Tony and Amy explain why most church vision statements fall short and offer something more important if you want to get unstuck and move the mission forward.

Register for "Finding Momentum" on October 20

At this free one-hour event, Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson will teach you how to kickstart momentum and healthy growth in your church in 2023. It's not too late—Register now!

This Episode is Sponsored by Planning Center

Planning Center is all-in-one church management software where you can organize your ministries and give your congregants a place to connect and get involved. Learn what else you can do at planningcenter.com and get a 30-day free trial to start exploring for yourself!

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode267.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 267] in your post for reference.

You Don't Need Core Values - Episode 266 Oct 12, 2022

Your culture will do more to impact the fulfillment of your mission than whether or not you have clearly articulated core values.

In Part 2 of our series, Tony and Amy discuss their experience with church core values statements—and explain a much more critical foundation for creating healthy, thriving churches.

Register NOW for "Finding Momentum" on October 20

At this free one-hour event, Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson will teach you how to kickstart momentum and healthy growth in your church in 2023. Register now.

This Episode is Sponsored by Planning Center

Planning Center is all-in-one church management software where you can organize your ministries and give your congregants a place to connect and get involved. Learn what else you can do at planningcenter.com and get a 30-day free trial to start exploring for yourself!

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode266.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 266] in your post for reference.

You Don't Need A Mission Statement - Episode 265 Oct 05, 2022

It's possible to have clarity and alignment and still be doing the wrong things to get the results that you want.

In this episode, Tony and Amy will unpack why you can be a healthy church without a great mission statement, but you can’t be a healthy church without knowing your mission field.

This Episode is Sponsored by Planning Center

Planning Center is all-in-one church management software where you can organize your ministries and give your congregants a place to connect and get involved. Learn what else you can do at planningcenter.com and get a 30-day free trial to start exploring for yourself!

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode265.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 265] in your post for reference.

How to Discover Your Gifts and Transform Your Work with Pat Lencioni - Bonus Episode Sep 29, 2022

Who doesn't want to be a genius at work?

For twenty-five years, Patrick Lencioni has been working with teams to help them become more cohesive, effective and successful. New from Pat and The Table Group, the Working Genius assessment was developed to help you "Discover your gifts, transform your work, your team, and your life."

If you're a church leader who is ready to identify the type of work that brings you joy and energy while avoiding the work that drains you, join in for this conversation with Pat Lencioni.

"The 6 Types of Working Genius: A Better Way to Understand Your Gifts, Your Frustrations, and Your Team" is available for purchase now. You can also learn more about Working Genius and purchase the assessment here.

For the full episode transcript and links mentioned during the show, visit this episode's Show Notes.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

Ask questions or add your comments about this topic using #unstuckchurch on Twitter, or join in on Facebook.

What Does the Research Say About Multisite Health? (Q&A with Warren Bird) - Episode 264 Sep 28, 2022

Despite it's growing popularity, there are still many questions and concerns around the validity of multisite strategy.

In this episode, Warren Bird (Senior Vice President of Research at ECFA) joins us to discuss recent multisite data trends and answer some of your frequently asked questions about multisite.

This Episode is Sponsored by ServeHQ

ServeHQ is simple video training courses that help you equip volunteers and develop leaders. You can create your own training or use their video library. You can even automate next steps to onboard new people. Check it out at ServeHQ.church.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode264.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 264] in your post for reference.

Are People Coming Back to Weekend Services? - Episode 263 Sep 21, 2022

Are people coming back to weekend services? The answer is yes and no.

In this episode, Tony and Amy discuss changing attendance patterns and offer three priorities for churches to encourage weekend service attendance in this season.

This Episode is Sponsored by BELAY:

BELAY, a modern staffing organization with U.S.-based Virtual Assistant, Accounting, Social Media, and Website services, has helped busy church leaders do just that for more than a decade. And now, BELAY has a VIP offer exclusively for our podcast listeners. To learn more, visit belaysolutions.com.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode263.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 263] in your post for reference.

Do We Really Need to Keep (or Start) Doing Digital Ministry? - Episode 262 Sep 14, 2022

Most churches tried to ignore digital ministry for as long as they could, and even now, many are still trying to avoid it…

In this episode, Tiffany Deluccia, Director of Sales and Marketing for The Unstuck Group, joins the podcast to discuss the pressing question: Do churches really need to keep doing (or start doing) digital ministry? This Episode is Sponsored by BELAY:

BELAY, a modern staffing organization with U.S.-based Virtual Assistant, Accounting, Social Media, and Website services, has helped busy church leaders do just that for more than a decade. And now, BELAY has a VIP offer exclusively for our podcast listeners. To learn more, visit belaysolutions.com.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode262.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 262] in your post for reference.

Is This The New Normal for Giving and Attendance? - Episode 261 Sep 07, 2022

Great leaders ask great questions. So, for the next four weeks, Tony, Amy, and some special guests will answer some of the frequently asked questions from leaders like you on a range of ministry topics.

In this episode, we’re unpacking the question: Is this the new normal for attendance and giving? Tony and Amy discuss the data and offer their thoughts on this commonly asked question.

This Episode is Sponsored by BELAY:

BELAY, a modern staffing organization with U.S.-based Virtual Assistant, Accounting, Social Media, and Website services, has helped busy church leaders do just that for more than a decade. And now, BELAY has a VIP offer exclusively for our podcast listeners. To learn more, visit belaysolutions.com.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode261.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 261] in your post for reference.

New Church Data & Trends: Q3 2022 Unstuck Church Report - Episode 260 Aug 31, 2022

Every quarter, The Unstuck Group releases The Unstuck Church Report to help church leaders monitor trends and benchmarks in key areas like ministry reach, connections, staffing, leadership, and finances. In this episode, Tony and Amy are walking through the newest trends and insights from our Q3 2022 report, fueled by data from over 300 churches across the world.

You can subscribe to receive the quarterly report for free, or, if you're subscribed to the podcast show notes, we'll send it out to you for free, as well.

For the full episode transcript, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode260.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 260] in your post for reference.

Staffing to Increase Serving - Episode 259 Aug 24, 2022

There's a tendency to believe that the more staff a church has, the more ministry they can get accomplished. However, our experience with hundreds of churches has shown that overstaffing tends to lead to under volunteering.

In this episode, Tony and Amy conclude our series on volunteering with a conversation about how staffing decisions and strategies impact volunteer engagement.

Free Training: "How to Engage More Volunteers & Leaders This Fall"

As we approach Fall 2022, how can we attract and engage more volunteers and leaders to our ministry teams? And once we’ve engaged them, how do we approach onboarding and caring for our volunteer teams? Join us on September 1 for this free event.

This Episode is Sponsored by ServeHQ

ServeHQ is simple video training courses that help you equip volunteers and develop leaders. You can create your own training or use their video library. You can even automate next steps to onboard new people. Check it out at ServeHQ.church.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode259.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 259] in your post for reference.

Helping People Become More Like Jesus - Episode 258 Aug 17, 2022

Healthy churches see volunteering as a key part of their spiritual formation strategy. However, many churches still struggle to engage their church in this key area.

In this episode, Tony and Amy unpack why serving is so important to helping people become more like Jesus and explain how churches can better incorporate serving into their spiritual formation process.

Free Training: "How to Engage More Volunteers & Leaders This Fall"

As we approach Fall 2022, how can we attract and engage more volunteers and leaders to our ministry teams? And once we’ve engaged them, how do we approach onboarding and caring for our volunteer teams? Join us on September 1 for this free event.

This Episode is Sponsored by Advent Blocks

The Local Church Program from Advent Blocks is sure to have your whole church engaged this Christmas season. Because they did all the work, you can plan your Christmas outreach in just 10 minutes. All you need to do is sign up, order everything at a bulk discount, and have a great Christmas!

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode258.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 258] in your post for reference.

Moving People from Services to Serving - Episode 257 Aug 10, 2022

We hear it from just about every pastor we’re talking to: people are coming back to church! However, while there is no shortage of new people attending services, churches are still struggling with engaging people in serving opportunities.

In this episode, Tony and Amy continue our series on volunteering by offering some practical strategies for moving more people and leaders from attending services to serving others.

Free Training: "How to Engage More Volunteers & Leaders This Fall"

As we approach Fall 2022, how can we attract and engage more volunteers and leaders to our ministry teams? And once we’ve engaged them, how do we approach onboarding and caring for our volunteer teams? Join us on September 1 for this free event.

This Episode is Sponsored by ServeHQ

ServeHQ is simple video training courses that help you equip volunteers and develop leaders. You can create your own training or use their video library. You can even automate next steps to onboard new people. Check it out at ServeHQ.church.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode256.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 257] in your post for reference.

The Unexpected Benefits of a Healthy Volunteer Culture - Episode 256 Aug 03, 2022

As people are coming back and still more new people are showing up, finding volunteers to support our mission has become more important than ever.

We're kicking off a new series on Rethinking Volunteer Engagement and exploring new data insights and practical wisdom around building a healthy volunteer culture. In this episode, Tony and Amy explore the connections between volunteer engagement and unity and generosity in the church.

Free Training: "How to Engage More Volunteers & Leaders This Fall"

As we approach Fall 2022, how can we attract and engage more volunteers and leaders to our ministry teams? And once we’ve engaged them, how do we approach onboarding and caring for our volunteer teams? Join us on September 1 for this free event.

This Episode is Sponsored by ServeHQ

ServeHQ is simple video training courses that help you equip volunteers and develop leaders. You can create your own training or use their video library. You can even automate next steps to onboard new people. Check it out at ServeHQ.church.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode256.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 256] in your post for reference.

Signs You Need to Restructure: Lack of Alignment & Span of Care - Episode 255 Jul 27, 2022

After working with hundreds of churches through the years on the issue of structure, it’s become clear that some staffing and structure strategies help churches accomplish their mission… and some do not.

This week, we're wrapping up our conversation around Signs You Need to Restructure with three final warning signs related to span of care issues and lack of team/ministry alignment.

Free Webinar: How to Restructure Your Church Staff

You’re perfectly structured to get the results you’re getting. Join us on July 28 for this free 1-hour webinar event unpacking how to restructure your church staff for the health and effectiveness of your ministry. It's not too late—register today!

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode255.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

Join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 255] in your post for reference.

Signs You Need to Restructure: Leadership Capacity & Diversity - Episode 254 Jul 20, 2022

Sometimes churches put people in leadership positions when they simply don’t have the leadership gift or capacity required for the role.

In this episode, we're unpacking three more warning signs it's time to restructure, including the importance of clarifying decision rights and why leadership teams need all kinds of diversity to thrive.

Free Webinar: How to Restructure Your Church Staff

You’re perfectly structured to get the results you’re getting. Join us on July 28 for this free 1-hour webinar event unpacking how to restructure your church staff for the health and effectiveness of your ministry. Register today.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode254.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

Join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 254] in your post for reference.

Signs You Need to Restructure: Legacy Structure - Episode 253 Jul 13, 2022

You’re perfectly structured to get the results you’re getting today—so if you want different results, it will likely require you to change both your strategy AND your structure.

In this episode, we're unpacking the problems with a legacy structure and identifying four more warning signs that your structure needs to change.

Free Webinar: How to Restructure Your Church Staff

You’re perfectly structured to get the results you’re getting. Join us on July 28 for this free 1-hour webinar event unpacking how to restructure your church staff for the health and effectiveness of your ministry. Register today.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode253.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

Join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 253] in your post for reference.

Signs You Need to Restructure: Overstaffing - Episode 252 Jul 06, 2022

Most churches have lower attendance today than they had three years ago—but they still haven’t right-sized their staff team to reflect their current attendance.

In this four-week series, we’ll walk through a number of early warning signs that it’s time to address staffing issues and restructure in your ministry team. In this episode, we'll focus on overstaffing.

Free Webinar: How to Restructure Your Church Staff

You’re perfectly structured to get the results you’re getting. Join us on July 28 for this free 1-hour webinar event unpacking how to restructure your church staff for the health and effectiveness of your ministry. Register today.

This Episode is Sponsored by The Church Laywers

The Church Lawyers’ Client Member program was created for organizations just like yours. Whether governance, employment, litigation, or other matters, let The Church Lawyers walk alongside you as you navigate legal issues facing your ministry. Sign up for the The Church Lawyers’ Client Member program today at thechurchlawyers.com.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode252.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 252] in your post for reference.

Coming Next: Signs You Need To Restructure Your Staff Jul 01, 2022

Churches today are overstaffed. Their org charts don’t align with their new post-pandemic ministry strategies. And the Great Resignation has left serious gaps in leadership.

This July, we’re kicking off a four-part series unpacking the four “Signs You Need to Restructure Your Staff." We need to right-size our teams and restructure for the future health of our churches today.

Subscribe to make sure you don't miss an episode, and join us on July 6 as we kick off "Signs You Need to Restructure Your Staff."

Finding Hope and Healing for Your Marriage with Jimmy and Irene Rollins - Episode 251 Jun 29, 2022

As pastors and leaders, our personal health and wellbeing directly impacts the health of our church.

In the final episode of our "Pastoring Pastors" series, we’re joined by Jimmy and Irene Rollins (founders of TWO = ONE) to discuss their own journey with marriage and ministry, explain how pastors can seek help for their struggles, and give encouragement for moving toward personal and marital health.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode251.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 251] in your post for reference.

Fulfilling Your Calling and Finishing Strong with David Ashcraft - Episode 250 Jun 22, 2022

Have you ever questioned your ministry calling? Or have the last few tumultous years made you consider quitting altogether?

In part three of our "Pastoring Pastors" series, Pastor David Ashcraft from LCBC Church joins us to discuss how pastors can stay the course, renew their call to ministry, and commit to finishing strong through all the ups and downs of life and leadership.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode250.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 250] in your post for reference.

3 Keys to Soul Care for Pastors with Sandra Stanley - Episode 249 Jun 15, 2022

In a world that praises and elevates those in power, humility is almost unnatural to us. However, pursuing humility is one of the most important keys to sustaining long-term in ministry.

In part two of our "Pastoring Pastors" series, Sandra Stanley joins us to discuss the importance of authenticity, humility, and relationships for the health of our leadership and our souls.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode249.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 249] in your post for reference.

Establishing Healthy Ministry Rhythms & Boundaries with Lance Witt - Episode 248 Jun 08, 2022

There’s no doubt that the last few years have been incredibly challenging for ministry leaders.

In the first part of our "Pastoring Pastors" series, Lance Witt, former Executive and Teaching Pastor at Saddleback Church and founder of Replenish, joins us to discuss establishing healthy ministry rhythms, boundaries, Sabbath, sabbaticals, and more.

This Episode is Sponsored by Leadr

Leadr is on a mission to transform The Great Resignation into The Great Resolution. Leadr is a people development software that helps you engage and grow your team. Check out Leadr.com, and see why over 700 churches have already joined this mission. Mention The Unstuck Church podcast for 20% off.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode248.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 248] in your post for reference.

Coming Next: Pastoring Pastors Jun 06, 2022

This June, we're setting aside conversations of strategy, growth, and efficiency and dedicating an entire month to focusing on your health. We want this to be a summer of renewal in your heart, in your mind, and in your spirit.

In the new four-part series we’re calling “Pastoring Pastors,” you can expect to hear from special guest voices on the topics of healthy rhythms, soul care, maintaining a healthy marriage, and more.

Subscribe to make sure you don't miss an episode, and join us on June 8 as we kick off "Pastoring Pastors."

New Church Data & Trends: Q2 2022 Unstuck Church Report - Episode 247 Jun 01, 2022

Every quarter, The Unstuck Group releases The Unstuck Church Report to help church leaders monitor trends and benchmarks in key areas like ministry reach, connections, staffing, leadership, and finances. In this episode, Tony and Amy are walking through new trends and data from our Q2 2022 report, as well as sharing practical wisdom from real church leaders.

You can subscribe to receive the quarterly report for free, or, if you're subscribed to the podcast show notes, we'll send it out to you for free, as well.

For the full episode transcript, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode247.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 247] in your post for reference.

Andy Stanley on Preaching for Life Change vs. Belief - Episode 246 May 25, 2022

How can we more effectively teach and engage the people who are connecting with our churches on a regular basis? Most importantly, how do we help those people take their next steps towards Jesus? In the final episode of our Preaching series, Andy Stanley joins us to discuss teaching that helps people follow, not just believe in, Jesus. This Episode is Sponsored by Overflow

Church fundraising is HARD—but Overflow is here to help. Overflow is an online software that empowers donors to seamlessly give crypto and stock donations to churches and nonprofits within minutes. As a result, churches have seen up to 32x return on their investment with Overflow! Unlock unprecedented generosity: visit overflow.co/unstuck.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode246.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 246] in your post for reference.

Rick Warren on Making Preaching Applicable - Episode 245 May 18, 2022

Rick Warren was just 16 years old when he began preaching. By the age of 18, Billy Graham became his personal mentor, and by age 20, he had preached at more than 120 crusades. In this episode, Rick joined us to discuss his ministry journey, approach to life-changing preaching, and more.

Free Webinar: Preaching Best Practices on May 19

Looking for more innovative approaches to preaching and teaching? Join Tony Morgan, Clay Scroggins, Dan Lian, and more on May 19 for this free 1-hour webinar event. Register today.

This Episode is Sponsored by Overflow

Church fundraising is HARD—but Overflow is here to help. Overflow is an online software that empowers donors to seamlessly give crypto and stock donations to churches and nonprofits within minutes. As a result, churches have seen up to 32x return on their investment with Overflow! Unlock unprecedented generosity: visit overflow.co/unstuck.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode245.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 245] in your post for reference.

Derwin Gray on Sermon Series Planning - Episode 244 May 11, 2022

In the second episode of our series on preaching and teaching best practices, Derwin Gray, the Founding and Lead Pastor of Transformation Church and a former NFL player, joins us to discuss his approach to weekly sermon prep, yearly series planning, and more.

Free Webinar: Preaching Best Practices on May 19

Looking for more innovative approaches to preaching and teaching? Join Tony Morgan, Clay Scroggins, Dan Lian, and more on May 19 for this free 1-hour webinar event. Register today.

This Episode is Sponsored by Overflow

Church fundraising is HARD—but Overflow is here to help. Overflow is an online software that empowers donors to seamlessly give crypto and stock donations to churches and nonprofits within minutes. As a result, churches have seen up to 32x return on their investment with Overflow! Unlock unprecedented generosity: visit overflow.co/unstuck.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode244.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 244] in your post for reference.

Brian Tome on the Future of Preaching - Episode 243 May 04, 2022

Being the primary preacher and teacher is one of the four main roles that a senior pastor can’t delegate. In the first part of our new Preaching series, Tony sat down with Brian Tome, Founding and Senior Pastor of Crossroads Church, to discuss his perspective on the future of preaching, digital ministry, reaching the next generation, and more.

Free Webinar: Preaching Best Practices on May 19

Looking for more innovative approaches to preaching and teaching? Join Tony Morgan, Clay Scroggins, Dan Lian, and more on May 19 for this free 1-hour webinar event. Register today.

This Episode is Sponsored by Overflow

Church fundraising is HARD—but Overflow is here to help. Overflow is an online software that empowers donors to seamlessly give crypto and stock donations to churches and nonprofits within minutes. As a result, churches have seen up to 32x return on their investment with Overflow! Unlock unprecedented generosity: visit overflow.co/unstuck.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode243.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 243] in your post for reference.

Simple Shifts: Strategies - Episode 242 Apr 27, 2022

"Whether we want to admit it or not, the WAY we do church often becomes more important than WHY we do church. We choose tradition over mission."

In this final episode of our Simple Shifts series, Tony and Amy are discussing shifts related to our strategies, including our Sunday services, sermons, and multi-generational ministries.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode242.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 242] in your post for reference.

Simple Shifts: Structure - Episode 241 Apr 20, 2022

Your team is the most valuable asset you have to move your vision forward. So how should we structure our church staff teams to be effective for the new normal?

In this episode, Tony and Amy discuss three simple shifts to consider related to your church staffing and structure.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode241.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 241] in your post for reference.

Simple Shifts: Foundations - Episode 240 Apr 13, 2022

In the first episode of our new series, we discussed what does not need to change in the new normal. But the series is called Simple Shifts for a reason–we do believe there are some things you need to consider changing.

In this week's episode, Tony and Amy are unpacking the first three simple shifts regarding your church's mission field and vision.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode240.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 240] in your post for reference.

Simple Shifts: What Doesn’t Need to Change? - Episode 239 Apr 06, 2022

Major disruptions over the last few years have left many pastors wondering if how they do ministry needs a dramatic overhaul. But what if rather than a total transformation, there were smaller changes we could make that will lead to greater impact?

Before we jump into our series on the simple shifts church leaders may need to consider, let’s first try to understand how we got to where we are today—and shift our focus for a moment on what doesn’t change.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode239.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 239] in your post for reference.

Coming Next: Simple Shifts Apr 04, 2022

“Do we really need to become a completely different church for the new normal?”

In our work with churches and pastors across the country, we’re hearing this question again and again. And the answer is a partial yes—some change is required to effectively engage our culture in this new normal.

However, a lot of the “new” that is needed for this new normal involves simple shifts that don’t require for us to become a completely different church. Join us starting on April 6 for the four-week "Simple Shifts" series.

The Best Practices of Multisite - Episode 238 Mar 30, 2022

Launching too quickly, or without the right systems and structures in place, can quickly get your multisite church multi-stuck.

In this week's episode, Tony and Amy walk through the 12 key questions for launching a new campus and offer best practices for decision-making, selecting a new location, and structuring your multisite staff team.

Free Webinar: "To Multisite or Un-Multisite: Clarify a Path Forward"

Multisite can easily get churches multi-stuck. Whether you're currently leading a multisite church or simply considering the strategy for the future, we invite you to join us on March 31 for a free webinar on multisite strategies.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode238.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 238] in your post for reference.

The Core Issues of Multisite - Episode 237 Mar 23, 2022

There is a right way and a wrong way to approach multisite. In other words, not all multisite strategies produce the same results. Tune in as Tony and Amy walk through some of the core issues in popular multisite models that lead to dysfunction and disunity among campuses.

Free Webinar: "To Multisite or Un-Multisite: Clarify a Path Forward"

Multisite can easily get churches multi-stuck. Whether you're currently leading a multisite church or simply considering the strategy for the future, we invite you to join us on March 31for a free webinar on multisite strategies.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode237.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 237] in your post for reference.

The Truth About Multisite - Episode 236 Mar 16, 2022

Recent public multisite collapses have many church leaders questioning the viability and health of the multisite church model. Is multisite still an effective strategy—or is the model itself broken?

This week, Tony and Amy are answering these questions and addressing more commons truths and lies about multisite.

Free Webinar: "To Multisite or Un-Multisite: Clarify a Path Forward"

Multisite can easily get churches multi-stuck. Whether you're currently leading a multisite church or simply considering the strategy for the future, we invite you to join us on March 31 for a free webinar on multisite strategies.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode236.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 236] in your post for reference.

Reaching New People with Dave Ferguson, Chris Hodges, and More - Episode 235 | The Unstuck Church Podcast Mar 09, 2022

To give practical advice and encouragement to church leaders ready to reach outward and engage their community, I recently invited Dave Ferguson (Community Christian Church), Chris Hodges (Church of the Highlands), and Jerry Sen (OneChurch.to) to join me for a conversation around three strategies for reaching new people.

Tune in as we discuss evangelism, digital ministry, and more.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode235.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 235] in your post for reference.

Church Health on This Side of the Pandemic: Q1 2022 Unstuck Church Report - Episode 234 | The Unstuck Church Podcast Mar 02, 2022

Every quarter, The Unstuck Group releases The Unstuck Church Report to help church leaders monitor trends and benchmarks in key areas like ministry reach, connections, staffing, leadership, and finances. In this episode, Tony and Amy are walking through a special bonus section from the Q1 2022 report that highlights the key differences between churches that are growing and declining on this side of the pandemic.

You can subscribe to the quarterly report for free, or, if you're subscribed to the podcast show notes, we'll send it out to you for free, as well.

For more information on our one million downloads giveaway, head over to our Instagram page!

For the full episode transcript, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode234.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 234] in your post for reference.

Reaching New People Through Weekend Services, Continued - Episode 233 Feb 23, 2022

There are several factors beyond just your sermon and worship that contribute to a relevant and engaging weekend experience.

In part two of this episode, Tony, Amy, and Sean explore more key differentiators in services that are reaching new people and those that aren’t, and give practical recommendations for enhancing key parts of your weekend experience.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode233.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 233] in your post for reference.

Reaching New People Through Weekend Services - Episode 232 Feb 16, 2022

We've heard many people try to make the case that Sunday services don't work when it comes to connecting new people to faith. But our data speaks to quite the opposite. In part one of this two-part episode all about reaching new people through your weekend services, Sean, Amy, and Tony share data, personal insights, and practical tips for enhancing your Sunday experience with outsiders in mind.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode232.

Webinar: 3 Strategies for Reaching New People (February 17)

Join us on February 17 @ 1PM ET and hear from leading church voices Dave Ferguson, Chris Hodges, and Jerry Sen and continue this conversation on how you can reach new people in 2022 using practical strategies.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 232] in your post for reference.

How to Reach New People with Digital Strategies - Episode 231 Feb 09, 2022

Many churches have taken huge steps forward with their online service experience in the last few years—and that’s a great start. But most churches are still missing the huge opportunity to reach new people through digital and online methods.

To hear from an expert in this area, Amy recently sat down with Katie Allred, Co-Founder of Church Communications, to discuss how church leaders can begin reaching outward with their digital strategies. Tune in as Sean and Amy walk through these practical insights.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode231.

Webinar: 3 Strategies for Reaching New People (February 17)

Join us on February 17 @ 1PM ET and hear from leading church voices Dave Ferguson, Chris Hodges, and Jerry Sen and continue this conversation on how you can reach new people in 2022 using practical strategies.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 231] in your post for reference.

How Sun Valley Community Church Is Reaching New People - Episode 230 Feb 02, 2022

It’s a new season—and that means we need to deploy new systems and new strategies to be effective in our outreach.

In the first episode of our series on Reaching New People, Tony and Amy sat down with leaders from Sun Valley Community Church to discuss some uncommon results: Their church has reached new people, baptized hundreds of new believers, and even started new campuses—all during the pandemic.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode230.

Webinar: 3 Strategies for Reaching New People (February 17)

Join us on February 17 @ 1PM ET and hear from leading church voices Dave Ferguson, Chris Hodges, and Jerry Sen and continue this conversation on how you can reach new people in 2022 using practical strategies.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 230] in your post for reference.

Reset: Necessary Pivots & Why Leaders Keep Learning (Pastor Greg Laurie, Harvest Christian Fellowship) - Episode 229 Jan 26, 2022

In the final episode of our Reset series, Pastor Greg Laurie joins us to discuss the challenges Harvest Christian Fellowship has experienced, the ways they've pivoted their strategies and methods, and provides practical advice and encouragement for other church leaders.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode229.

Register here for your free ticket to the ENGAGE Conference (February 8-10).

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 229] in your post for reference.

Reset: Pruning, Digital Ministry, & Making Bold Moves for Your Community (OneChurch.to) - Episode 228 Jan 19, 2022

“The church won’t look the same in the future, and that’s okay.”

In Part 3 of our Reset series, Tony interviews Jonathan Smith, Lead Pastor at OneChurch.to, to discuss how they clarified their future direction, shifted their strategies to reach outward digitally, and reshaped their vision of discipleship for the betterment of their city.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode228.

Register here for your free ticket to the ENGAGE Conference (February 8-10).

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 228] in your post for reference.

Reset: Embracing Change & Moving Forward with No Limits (Cowboy Junction Church) - Episode 227 Jan 12, 2022

In Part 2 of our Reset series, Tony sits down with Pastor Ty Bean to discuss how Ty led Cowboy Junction Church to shift their programming and adopt a digital strategy, all while completing a building project during a pandemic—and how they came out stronger on the other end.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode227.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 227] in your post for reference.

Reset: Simplicity, Sustainability, & an Outward Focus (Southview Community Church) - Episode 226 Jan 05, 2022

“We can’t just think about the people who are in the room.”

This week, we're kicking off a new series called "Reset: A New Mindset for a New Season." In this episode, Tony sits down with Pastor William Attaway from Southview Community Church to discuss how his church is shifting their mindset and refocusing outward.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode226.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 226] in your post for reference.

Our 2021 Year in Review - Episode 225 Dec 22, 2021

It's almost the new year! But before we look forward to what's ahead, we wanted to stop and look back to celebrate what God's been doing at The Unstuck Group and through the churches that we've served over the last 12 months.

Listen in as Tony and Amy recap our team wins from the year and explain why they're optimistic about what's next.

For the full episode transcript and links mentioned during the show visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode225.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 225] in your post for reference.

3 Roles An Executive Pastor Can't Delegate (Replay) - Episode 224 Dec 15, 2021

We first posted this conversation back in 2019, and it’s been one of our most downloaded episodes since. Clearly this content is more relevant than ever as churches seek to drive their vision forward toward action.

In this episode, you’ll hear a replay of a webinar all about the roles and responsibilities of an effective executive pastor, featuring Paul Alexander of Sun Valley Church, Jenni Catron of The 4Sight Group, and Dan Reiland of 12Stone Church. For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode224.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 224] in your post for reference.

Church Health Data & Trends: Q4 Unstuck Church Report - Episode 223 Dec 08, 2021

Every quarter, The Unstuck Group releases The Unstuck Church Report to help church leaders monitor trends and benchmarks in areas like ministry reach, connection, staffing, leadership, and finances.

In this episode, Tony and Amy are walking through the brand new data from our Q4 2021 report.

You can subscribe to the quarterly report for free, or, if you're subscribed to the podcast show notes, we'll send it out to you for free, as well.

For the full episode transcript, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode223.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 223] in your post for reference.

How to Find & Measure Leaders in Your Church - Episode 222 Dec 01, 2021

The number of volunteer leaders may be one of the biggest differentiators between healthy and stuck churches.

That's why in the final part of our series on healthy church numbers and metrics, Tony and Amy are explaining how you can identify, measure, and empower leaders in your church.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode222.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 222] in your post for reference.

Metrics & Benchmarks for Your Front Door and Connections - Episode 221 Nov 24, 2021

It's Part 2 of our series on "Healthy Church by the Numbers" and we're diving into the front door and connections metrics you should be tracking.

In this episode, Tony and Amy are bringing practical wisdom on how you can effectively track your attendance, online engagement, front door reach, and spiritual growth.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode221.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 221] in your post for reference.

How Much Should We Pay Our Staff? - Episode 220 Nov 17, 2021

We often get questions around what healthy numbers and metrics look like for churches, and we'll be walking through some of those benchmarks in our new podcast series: Healthy Church by the Numbers.

This week, Tony and Amy are starting with staffing and salary—answering your questions about staffing budgets, competing with the marketplace, what the Bible says about compensation, and more.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode220.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 220] in your post for reference.

Andy Stanley on How to Lead a Divided Church - Episode 219 Nov 10, 2021

We know the Church is called to unity, but it feels like we’re more divided than ever. How can we lead boldly from a place of unity and peace?

In this episode, hear the replay of a conversation between Tony Morgan and Andy Stanley, Lead Pastor of North Point Community Church, on how to lead a divided church.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode219.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 219] in your post for reference.

2021 Church Giving Trends (and How to Encourage Generosity) - Episode 218 Nov 03, 2021

It's always important to get a clear picture of where we are now before we can make a plan to move forward.

This week, Tony and Amy are breaking down some of the biggest trends in church and non-profit giving, and offering some tips for how churches can connect with new givers and encourage generosity.

FREE WEBINAR: Join Tony Morgan and the team at MortarStone on November 18 for a free webinar on "Giving Trends & Strategies for Church Growth in 2022." Register here!

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode218.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 218] in your post for reference.

How to Get a Fresh Start (Without Quitting Your Job) - Episode 217 Oct 27, 2021

For the last three weeks, we’ve been discussing the transition into a new leadership role—but this week, we wanted to provide a little bit of a different perspective.

You don’t need a new job to get a fresh start. Instead, Tony and Amy are exploring how you can start fresh with a renewed passion and vision for exactly where God has you now.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode217.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 217] in your post for reference.

Defining Success for the First 90 Days (with Chris Surratt of Harvest Church) - Episode 216 Oct 20, 2021

When entering a new role, it’s easy to be reactive to the opportunities and challenges that come with it. But if you want to experience success, you need to be proactive and intentional about developing a strategy. In this week's episode, Tony is joined by Chris Surratt of Harvest Church (Riverside, CA) to explore how leaders can define their wins and find success in new leadership roles.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode216.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 216] in your post for reference.

From XP to SP: Leveling Up in Your Leadership (with Jeff Brodie of Connexus Church) - Episode 215 Oct 13, 2021

This week, we're diving into the unique challenges of moving from an executive role to becoming the Senior Pastor.

Listen in on a conversation between Tony and Jeff Brodie, Lead Pastor of Connexus Church, around making the transition to senior leadership, scaling your team, and delegating what you used to own.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode215.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 215] in your post for reference.

Leading with a Fresh Sense of Vision - Episode 214 Oct 06, 2021

We're seeing it in the marketplace and in the church: people are leaving their jobs and making big career shifts. If you've experienced a role change or restructuring, how can you lead well into this next season of ministry?

This week, Tony and Amy are exploring how to lead with a fresh sense of vision when taking on a new role. As uncertainty increases, so does the desire for a clear sense of direction.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode214.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 214] in your post for reference.

Finding Church Health Again - Episode 213 Sep 29, 2021

Most churches are still focused on getting people to return back to their services. And it’s easy to understand why. But are you feeling the call to put your focus forward again?

Last week, Tony Morgan, Amy Anderson, and Sean Bublitz hosted a live webinar on "Finding Church Health Again." Listen in on their conversation as they discuss assessing ministry health, strategic planning for the future, and aligning your structure to accomplish your vision.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode213.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 213] in your post for reference.

Staffing for Your Strategy - Episode 212 Sep 22, 2021

When it comes to staffing and structure, most teams think about their people, then their structure, then their strategy. But we believe that the opposite should be true.

This week, Tony and Amy are explaining their strategy-first approach for developing an effective staffing structure for churches.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode212.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 212] in your post for reference.

Silver Bullets & Strategic Planning - Episode 211 Sep 15, 2021

There are no shortcuts to becoming a healthy, growing, thriving church. Instead, what we see in the churches experiencing the most success is a consistent determined commitment to ministry planning over an extended period of time.

This week, Tony and Amy are making the case for strategic planning and "consistent strategic obedience" as the key to long-term health and growth.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode211.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 211] in your post for reference.

Assessing Your Ministry's Health Today - Episode 210 Sep 08, 2021

Many pastors want to jump right in to planning and implementing change. But before we can make any progress in moving forward, we need to get a grasp on where we are today.

In Part 1 of our new "Strategic Planning for the Future" series, Tony and Amy are explaining the four key elements to assessing the health of your ministry today.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode210.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 210] in your post for reference.

New Data on Team Health & Performance - Episode 209 Sep 01, 2021

Given what our world has experienced over the last year and a half, we sensed now might be a good time to check in and see how teams are doing. So we surveyed over 1,100 church staff members from churches across the US, Canada, and even the United Kingdom.

This week, Tony and Amy discuss their key findings from the data released in this quarter's special edition of The Unstuck Church Report. You can subscribe to the quarterly report for free, or, if you're subscribed to the podcast show notes, we send it out to you for free, as well.

For the full episode transcript, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode209.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 209] in your post for reference.

How to Build a Healthy Organizational Culture - Episode 208 Aug 25, 2021

A healthy culture can help turbocharge your vision and make progress toward the calling that God has for your church. On the other hand, an unhealthy team culture will actually erode your vision and derail your strategy.

This week, listen in on a conversation between Tony Morgan and Lance Witt on building a healthy organizational culture, taken from our recent "Healthy & High-Performing Teams" masterclass.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode208.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 208] in your post for reference.

The Key Thing Most Church Teams Are Missing - Episode 207 Aug 18, 2021

The best teams are balanced teams. They aren't strong in one area and weak in another. They have an appropriate focus on both health and high-performance.

This week, Tony and Amy explain an imbalance many teams experience related to their natural strengths, why it matters, and how to fix it.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode207.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 207] in your post for reference.

When Your Staff Doesn’t Recommend Your Team - Episode 206 Aug 11, 2021

"On a scale of 0-10, how likely is it that you would recommend a friend or colleague to work on your church team?" You might be surprised by how the people on your staff team would answer that question.

This week, Tony and Amy are diving into what a Net Promoter Score is and how you can use it to improve the health and performance of your team.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode206.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 206] in your post for reference.

How to Avoid the Fundamental Attribution Error - Episode 205 Aug 04, 2021

A lot of stuck churches have stuck teams. But healthy churches need leadership teams that are both healthy and high-performing. In this new podcast series, we’ll be working through three of the signs that your team is stuck.

This week, Tony and Amy are breaking down a recurring theme in team assessment results called the Fundamental Attribution Error, and explaining the effect it has on team health, team performance, and more.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode205.

Upcoming Subscriber Event

Are you a dedicated listener of our podcast? We'd love for you to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. Then Tweet, DM, or email us (jordan@theunstuckgroup.com) a screenshot of your review. We'll grab your email address and invite you to our exclusive Podcast Coffee Hour event on August 13.

How to Re-Engage Your Church in the Mission - Episode 204 Jul 28, 2021

We recently hosted a virtual roundtable event called RE-ENGAGE: Carrying the Mission Forward in the New Normal where pastors from across North America got together to share the successes and challenges their churches are experiencing as they begin to reopen and re-engage.

In this episode, you'll hear the replay of that roundtable conversation and gain insights in the areas of attendance, giving, serving, political division, soul care, and more.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode204.

Upcoming Subscriber Event

Are you a dedicated listener of our podcast? We'd love for you to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. Then Tweet, DM, or email us (jordan@theunstuckgroup.com) a screenshot of your review. We'll grab your email address and invite you to our exclusive Podcast Coffee Hour event on August 13.

How to Change the World Without Exhausting Yourself - Episode 203 Jul 21, 2021

Oftentimes in the busyness of our roles, our days get filled with the things that are urgent. We spend a lot of our time trying to do all the work of ministry by ourselves. But in the end, this only serves to stunt the potential growth and impact of our church.

This week, Tony and Amy were joined by Andrea Lathrop, Executive Pastor of Leadership Development at Oaks Church, to discuss the core shifts we need to make to develop and empower our leaders to do the ministry of the church.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode203.

Upcoming Subscriber Event

Are you a dedicated listener of our podcast? We'd love for you to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. Then Tweet, DM, or email us (jordan@theunstuckgroup.com) a screenshot of your review. We'll grab your email address and invite you to our exclusive Podcast Coffee Hour event on August 13.

Why Churches Become Insider-Focused (and How to Fix It) - Episode 202 Jul 14, 2021

Most churches start with the same mission: reach new people for Jesus. But over time, this mission shifts from reaching the people on the outside to appeasing the people on the inside. Once this shift occurs, the church is headed toward decline.

This week, Tony sat down with Michael Moore, the Executive Pastor at Faith Chapel and consultant at The Unstuck Group, to discuss the ways his church has fought to overcome this internal-focus tendency, and how other church leaders can do the same.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode202.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

The Declining Side of the Lifecycle - Episode 201 Jul 07, 2021

Out of the 15,000+ churches that have taken our Unstuck Church Assessment, about 85% self-assessed as being on the declining side of the lifecycle. So if you find yourself in one of these phases, you’re not alone.

This week, in the final part of our Ask This, Not That series, Tony and Amy are discussing the declining side of the lifecycle: maintenance, preservation, and life support. We’ll break down the characteristics of each of these phases, explain why churches often find themselves here, and give next steps for getting back to health.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode201.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Behind-the-Scenes with the Unstuck Team - Episode 200 Jul 06, 2021

Today, we're celebrating, because our podcast is officially 200 episodes old. They grow up so fast!

To celebrate this special occasion, Amy and I decided to take a quick pause from our current series and "pull back the curtain" of the podcast. You'll get to meet the full team of Unstuck rockstars that help us record, edit, publish, and share this podcast every single week. We'll also share our insights and takeaways for leaders who may be exploring all things digital ministry and content creation.

Upcoming Subscriber Event

Are you a dedicated listener of our podcast? We'd love for you to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. Then Tweet, DM, or email us (jordan@theunstuckgroup.com) a screenshot of your review. We'll grab your email address and invite you to our exclusive Podcast Coffee Hour event on August 13.

For the full episode transcript, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode200.

Experiencing Sustained Health: The Pinnacle of the Lifecycle - Episode 199 Jun 30, 2021

If we're winning, why would we change? Churches in sustained health are often wondering how they can preserve what's working, when they should be asking what they need to change.

In this week's episode, Tony and Amy discuss why healthy churches still need to embrace change, explain the three multiplication strategies every healthy church needs, and offer a reflection exercise for your team.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode199.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 199] in your post for reference.

The Growing Side of the Church Lifecycle - Episode 198 Jun 23, 2021

Most organizations start, grow, thrive, lose momentum, decline… and eventually end. The same is true for most churches.

In our new series, “Ask This, Not That,” we're exploring the seven phases of the church lifecycle: launch, momentum growth, strategic growth, sustained health, maintenance, preservation, and life support. This week, we'll unpack the first three phases and discuss the questions many church leaders are asking in these seasons versus the questions they should be asking.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode198.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 198] in your post for reference.

Re-Engage Your People in GIVING - Episode 197 Jun 16, 2021

When it comes to giving and stewardship, you need to remind people what you want for them rather than what you want from them.

In the final part of our re-engagement series, Tony sat down with Bronson Crawford, the Stewardship Director at Athens Church in Athens, Georgia. Even before Covid, they were thinking intentionally and getting creative when it comes to engaging their congregation with the topic of stewardship.

Bronson shared five strategies that he believes set their church up for sustained financial health before, during, and after the pandemic. There are two solid action steps and one key takeaway for churches that you won't want to miss.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode197.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 197] in your post for reference.

Re-Engage Your People in WEEKEND SERVICES - Episode 195 Jun 02, 2021

The days of us turning on the “We’re open” light and waiting for people to show up for church are behind us.

Reopening and re-engaging your congregation has likely already been more challenging than expected. We need to engage our mission field and compel them to come (see Luke 14:23).

There are no real experts in this season, but churches in some parts of the country are a month or two ahead of the learning curve. In Part 2, we share Crossroads Church’s story and a few practical takeaways to help you re-engage people in weekend services.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode195.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 195] in your post for reference.

Re-Engage Your People in SERVING - Episode 194 May 26, 2021

On the other side... You’ve been waiting for this day for months. Instead of talking about how ministry strategy needs to shift because of the pandemic, you’re starting to talk about what ministry will look like on the other side of it.

But if you’re like most of the pastors we’re talking to, reopening and re-engaging your congregation has already been more challenging than expected.

There are no real experts in this season, but churches in some parts of the country are a month or two ahead of the learning curve.

So, in this NEW 4-PART SERIES, we’re sharing interviews with pastors who are leading the way in navigating the reopening challenges ahead of us all.

In Part 1, we share Quest Church’s story and a few practical takeaways to help you re-engage people in serving roles.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode194.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 194] in your post for reference.

New Benchmarks to Help You Make Ministry Decisions - Episode 193 May 19, 2021

Giving and attendance—If you were used to measuring church health only by tracking giving and attendance, then the last year has been very confusing.

It's not an overstatement to say most pastors have been struggling to get a pulse on the health of their ministries. But truth be told, even before the pandemic most churches didn't know what to track beyond giving and attendance.

With the Vital Signs Assessment, we track data on all the metrics we encourage church leaders to track, and then with The Unstuck Church Report, we open up that data to pastors and share the trends and insights we are noticing.

You can subscribe to that quarterly report for free, or, if you're subscribed to the podcast show notes, we send it out to you for free, as well.

Each quarter, Tony and Amy dedicate one podcast episode to unpacking a few of the standout trends from the new report. Listen now for new insights from the last 12 months of data.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode193.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 193] in your post for reference.

How to Lead Meetings People Look Forward to Attending - Episode 192 May 12, 2021

No one TRIES to lead ineffective meetings, but any leader can get a bit lazy. The 9 key practices we share in this episode aren't rocket science, but they are things we see many church leaders just letting slip.

When a team is clear on direction and wins, and puts these principles into practice in their meetings, people actually like meetings. They help us clarify our work and move things forward. They turn into a worthy investment of our time rather than an energy drain.

In this episode, Tony and Amy wrap-up this series by sharing how you can corral one of the biggest time-wasters on any team.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode192.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 192] in your post for reference.

7 Hacks for Gaining Traction on Priorities - Episode 191 May 05, 2021

What drives leaders completely crazy?

Lack of follow-through.

It's honestly one of the most common frustrations we hear from church leaders. They invest time, prayer, dreaming, talking, and planning around what God has next for their ministry, but then nothing happens. There’s no follow-through. A distraction, or a crisis—something that feels more urgent—consistently derails the leader and the team from executing on the real priorities.

Sound familiar?

In Part 3 of this series on Creating Alignment, Tony and Amy discuss seven hacks leaders can use to align the team around executing on the ministry priorities.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode191.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 191] in your post for reference.

How to Determine Your Span-of-Care - Episode 190 Apr 28, 2021

Are you leading too many direct reports? A senior leader's span of care can significantly impact a team’s ability to clarify roles and maintain alignment.

Part of span of care is giving direction related to the mission, strategy, and priorities of your church, but the other piece of it is the discipleship of the people on your team.

Many leaders think that by directly trying to lead as many people as possible, more people will be directly connected to the mission. But when your span of care gets stretched too wide, you naturally have less time to invest with each person on your team.

So, what is the RIGHT number of people for you to personally lead?

In Part 2 of this series on Creating Alignment, Tony and Amy give you some really practical ways to think about getting your span of care to its healthiest place—for both you and for the ministry.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode190.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 190] in your post for reference.

How To Define Reality For Your Team - Episode 189 Apr 21, 2021

How do you define reality for your team and why is it important?

In 2019, 85% of churches that took the Unstuck Church Assessment self-identified as being in the “declining” stage of the life cycle. Now, having survived 2020, more churches than ever are feeling stuck. So we’re kicking off a four-part series on how to create alignment in your ministry strategy and among your staff and volunteers.

Join Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson on this week's podcast episode for practical examples and strategies for defining reality on your team.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode189.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 189] in your post for reference.

10 Questions You're Asking About Digital Ministry But Wish You Weren't - Episode 188 Apr 14, 2021

"Do we have to embrace digital ministry?" "Do churches need to mimic the business world when it comes to online options?" "Do we really have to hire new roles for our staff team?"

We've been getting a lot of questions about digital ministry strategy now that we're a year into the changes that COVID accelerated. The initial changes churches were forced to make are being reevaluated as many places open back up and in-person gathering is an option again.

In this week's episode, Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson sit down to talk through ten questions on the digital ministry you're probably asking but wish you weren't.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode188.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 188] in your post for reference.

How Sun Valley Church is Building Their Digital Strategy - Episode 187 Apr 07, 2021

How important is data? What role should data play in your ministry strategy? What should you measure?

In this week's episode of The Unstuck Church Podcast, we sit down again with the Sun Valley Church team to dig into the practical ways they use data to inform their ministry strategies and how churches can leverage data to help reach more people with the message of Jesus.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode187.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 187] in your post for reference.

How Sun Valley Church Is Building Their Digital Strategy - Episode 186 Mar 31, 2021

Where do you find the right person to lead your digital ministry? What should your digital ministry focus on? How do you reach new people online?

For months, we’ve been coaching churches to find a leader for their digital ministry strategies and in this week’s episode we’re sitting down with a church that has done exactly that.

Paul Alexander serves as the Executive Pastor at Sun Valley Community Church, a multisite church in Phoenix and Mika Casey serves as their Digital Strategies Lead Director.

In this week’s episode, we look at some practical examples of what digital ministry strategy looks like.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode186.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 186] in your post for reference.

3 Keys To Structure Your Team For Future Ministry Impact - Episode 185 Mar 24, 2021

How can you maximize your ministry impact? Your team plays a big role.

We've heard from a lot of churches that have questions about how to structure their team. They're re-evaluating what roles they need to have on their staff team and looking for clarity on how to structure their leadership team moving forward. If you're wondering how to structure your team to be healthy and high performing, you're in the right place.

In this week's episode, Tony Morgan is joined by Amy Anderson and Michael Moore for a practical conversation around how church leaders can strategically structure their team for health and growth.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode185.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 185] in your post for reference.

Top 5 Mistakes Multisite Churches Make in Staffing & Structure (And How to Avoid Them) - Episode 184 Mar 10, 2021

What are the common mistakes multisite churches make in staffing and structure?

Now that the church has embraced multisite for over 20 years, there are predictable outcomes that we see related to how churches design and structure their multisite churches. Some of those outcomes are good and they help the church grow and expand in healthy ways. And some of those outcomes lead to what we have started to refer to as a church being "multi stuck".

In this week's episode, Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson dig into the top mistakes multisite churches make in staffing and structure and how to avoid them.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode184.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 184] in your post for reference.

10 Crucial Questions to Ask If You're Considering a Church Merger - Episode 183 Mar 03, 2021

What do church mergers have to do with multisite strategy? And why is this such a critical conversation right now?

Pre-COVID 20% of churches who took our Unstuck Church Assessment identified that they were in the "life support" stage. For many struggling churches, merging with a healthy, thriving church is their best option. And for larger, healthy churches, merging can be a way to expand their ministry impact. But before you consider a merger, there are a couple of critical conversations you need to have.

In this week’s episode, Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson unpack the 10 crucial questions church leaders need to consider before merging.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode183.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 183] in your post for reference.

The Future Of Multisite Strategy - Episode 182 Feb 24, 2021

What are the common challenges that multisite churches face? Should your church consider going multisite?

Multisite churches have come increasingly popular. 20 years ago, there were only 200 multisite churches across the country. In 2019, there were more than 5,000.

The pandemic has also contributed to a growing interest in multisite strategy as churches consider how to grow and reach more people. Large churches with multiple smaller venues – that are closer to where people live and that offer multiple options for service times – will be better positioned for a post-COVID world than trying to gather larger crowds in the same space at the same time.

In this week’s episode Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson dig into the common concerns church leaders have about going multisite and core challenges multisite churches face.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode182.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 182] in your post for reference.

Key Data & Trends from 9 Months of Pandemic Ministry - Episode 181 Feb 17, 2021

What should churches be measuring right now? What's been happening across churches over the last 9 months of doing ministry in the midst of the pandemic?

In this week's episode of The Unstuck Church Podcast, Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson unpack key findings from The Unstuck Church Report and dig into trends in giving, staffing, online engagement, and reaching new people.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode181.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 181] in your post for reference.

5 Practices For Blessing & Reaching People Outside The Church - Episode 180 Feb 10, 2021

How do you equip your congregation to bless their neighbors? How can you create a culture at your church where you're developing meaningful friendships with people outside the faith?

Barna's research indicates more than six in 10 non-Christians and lapsed Christians say they would be open to talking about faith matters with someone who listens without judgment.

In this week's episode of The Unstuck Church Podcast, Tony Morgan and Dave Ferguson dig into 5 practical practices you can use to bless and reach people outside the church and outside the faith.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode180.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 180] in your post for reference.

How To Plan for the Future in Uncertain Times - Episode 179 Feb 03, 2021

How do you plan for the future of your church when the future is so uncertain?

After surviving the incredible disruption of 2020, all of us are looking for a clear path forward. The good news is you don't need to wait for certainty to get clear on your church's mission, vision, and strategic plan.

In this week's episode of The Unstuck Church Podcast, Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson dig into 5 key questions you can start answering today to get clarity.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode179.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 179] in your post for reference.

3 Key Financial Strategies for Your Church in the New Reality - Ep 178 Jan 27, 2021

What should churches invest in financially? 6 out of 10 churches are doing better than before and giving is up. But 4 out of 10 churches have, understandably, experienced a financial decline in the last year.

In this week's episode of The Unstuck Church Podcast, Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson unpack 3 key investment strategies for churches in the new reality.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode178.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 178] in your post for reference.

3 New Keys to Staffing and Structure for a Hybrid Church - Episode 177 Jan 20, 2021

How do you structure your team for a hybrid church model?

Many churches are wondering what roles they need on their team, what to measure, and how to align their staff around a hybrid church model with both online and in-person ministry strategies.

In this week's episode of The Unstuck Church Podcast, Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson unpack the 3 new keys to staffing and structure for a hybrid church.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode177.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 177] in your post for reference.

Your Church Survived 2020, Now What? - Episode 176 Jan 13, 2021

You did it. You survived one of the most disruptive, unpredictable years we've ever seen.

And your church survived too. But the stop-gap strategies that helped churches stay afloat through the last year are not the strategies that will set them up for long-term health and growth.

In this week's episode of The Unstuck Church Podcast, Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson unpack the foundational principles of building a hybrid church and what the post-covid church can look like.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode176.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 176] in your post for reference.

What Happened In 2020 - Episode 175 Jan 06, 2021

2020 was a year of unprecedented change and unwanted tensions and an unknown future. As we welcome 2021 and look back at the year behind us, Tony Morgan shares some insight into what he's grateful for at The Unstuck Group and a challenge for churches moving forward.

The Most Listened To Conversation Of 2020 - Episode 174 Dec 23, 2020

What strategic shifts do churches need to make due to the coronavirus?

This week, we take a look back at our most popular conversation from 2020 and dig into the practical ways that churches need to change their ministry strategies to continue not just survive but thrive in the new normal and continue making disciples.

4 Steps to Re-Align Your Team for Digital Ministry - Episode 173 Dec 16, 2020

How do you structure your team for a hybrid church model? How do you staff for a digital-first ministry strategy?

Many churches are struggling to optimize and align their staff team around a hybrid church model and make the mental shift from being a church with online options to being an online organization with in-person options.

In this week's episode of The Unstuck Church Podcast, Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson unpack the 4 steps church leaders need to take to align their team for digital ministry.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode173.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 173] in your post for reference.

How to Measure Online Disciple Making - Episode 172 Dec 09, 2020

One of the biggest questions we've been asked since the pandemic hit is: What should we be measuring now?

So this week we're going to walk through what to measure and what matters in the world of online disciple making.

There are a lot of easy-to-see metrics clamoring for your attention. But at the end of the day, there is a simple principle that will help you navigate what to measure regardless of the platform or channel: Everything you measure should help you make better decisions.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode172.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 172] in your post for reference.

How to Make Disciples Online - Episode 171 Dec 02, 2020

How do you make disciples online? If you want your church to thrive in 2021, you need to figure out how to both reach new people and engage with your current congregation digitally.

At this point, 10 months into the pandemic, many churches are seeing less and less engagement online.

In order to create a strong, successful digital ministry strategy, you need to understand the spiritual journey and how to reach people where they are. In this episode, Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson share what we’re learning about how to just that.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode171.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 171] in your post for reference.

Best Practices for Church Boards - Episode 170 Nov 25, 2020

What does it take to create an effective church board?

Over the last 11 years of working with churches, we've found that church governance is a key difference between healthy, growing churches and churches that are stuck or in decline.

In this week’s episode, Tony Morgan and Sean Bublitz dig into the best practices for selecting board members and structuring your church board to be healthy and effective.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode170.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 170] in your post for reference.

5 Key Roles of an Effective Church Board - Episode 169 Nov 18, 2020

What makes an effective church board? What roles should they take on and what's the responsibility of the staff team?

After working with close to 500 churches over the last 11 years, here's what we've learned are common mistakes church board's make and the 5 key roles they need to own.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode169.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 169] in your post for reference.

How COVID-19 Changed What Your Team Needs from You as the Leader - Episode 168 Nov 11, 2020

The demands and expectations for leading ministry seem to be surging.

We're all changing how we do ministry, serve people in our communities, and care for the sick.

The workload has grown exponentially, and none of us can do it all. You, and the people on your team, are only human.

In last week's episode, we talked about how pastors can stay emotionally healthy as they are under greater pressure and being criticized more than ever. The order of these two episodes matter—you need to listen to Episode 167 first.

In this second part, we're talking about how what your team needs from you as their leader has changed, and how pastors can help their teams stay healthy in a turbulent season.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode168.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 168] in your post for reference.

Lance Witt on Prioritizing Your Own Health While Leading Change, Facing Pressure & Dealing with Criticism - Episode 167 Nov 04, 2020

You're under greater pressure than ever… and being criticized more than ever… how do pastors stay emotionally healthy right now? Pastors are telling us they feel like they just can't make a right call. It doesn't matter which decision they're making—they've got people criticizing them from every angle.

It’s been an exhausting year, and it’s likely you’re running on reserves. We hope this episode helps you take a deep breath.

Amy Anderson interviews Lance Witt on some shifts in your mindset and some practical adjustments in your schedule and habits that will help you take the reins again on the care of your own soul and become the healthy leader God wants you to be.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode167.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 167] in your post for reference.

Nona Jones on Engaging People in Digital Spaces, and Jeff Brodie on the Digital Shift at Connexus Church - Episode 166 Oct 28, 2020

What if we had to rethink the importance of getting new people to a building or a program... for the long haul?

As part of a recent Unstuck Masterclass, Tony had the opportunity to interview Nona Jones and Jeff Brodie on the shift that's happening from engaging new people with in-person services to engaging them online.

Nona serves as the head of Facebook's faith-based partnerships, and Jeff is the lead pastor at Connexus Church in Barrie, Ontario.

Nona summed up the situation we all found ourselves in back in the spring... and if we're honest... the pull most churches are feeling strongly right now:

"Somewhere along the line of the history of the Church, we've come to define church as a place you go or a program you watch, and because of that, people have been slow to adapt to anything other than strategies that get people to a building. When you think about how social technology has been used thus far, it has predominantly been for marketing to get people to the building."

Nona and Jeff each brought their unique perspectives as innovative leaders in local churches on how we can shift to engage and reach people in a digital culture.

So in this episode, we're sharing portions of Tony's interviews with each of them that we think will give you some practical handles for doing so at your church as well.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode166.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 166] in your post for reference.

Trends in Online Viewing, In-Person Attendance, Staffing, and Digital Strategies - Episode 165 Oct 21, 2020

Approximately 1 staff person for every 18 people showing up for in-person church attendance...

Approximately 1 staff person in dedicated roles responsible for digital ministry strategy for every 1,273 online viewers...

We found some interesting—and some alarming—data points in our most recent survey on the state of digital ministry strategy. In collaboration with Blackbaud, we completed another survey in late September, and more than 260 churches participated with good representation across the church size spectrum.

The questions focused on how churches are adapting to digital ministry strategies, particularly in the areas of weekend services, online viewing patterns, staffing, outreach, etc.

We found some significant differences from the trends churches were reporting back in the early part of the year.

In this episode, Tony and Amy dig into what the data is showing us about where churches stand today in regards to their digital strategies, how they reach new people, and how they staff and structure for ministry.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download a copy of The Unstuck Church Report, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode165.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 165] in your post for reference.

Reimagining Christmas - Episode 164 Oct 14, 2020

We need to acknowledge it: An in-person Christmas experience may not be a draw this year.

Most people who are not connected with a church will probably not want to go to an in-person experience, wearing masks, socially distanced in an unfamiliar place, surrounded by an unfamiliar crowd of people.

The opportunity we have this year is to equip our attendees to bring church to their families instead of bringing their families to church.

Christmas has always been the holiday when people are a little more open to faith and open to church. What could we create online that would reach people outside the faith? If you don’t start with this question, you’ll default to doing what churches have always done, which is to put the team’s best energy into designing an in-person experience and using the leftover energy to figure out how to put that experience on-line.

In this episode, Tony and Amy are joined by Sean Bublitz to help you figure out where to start and what to consider.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode164.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 164] in your post for reference.

Best Practices for Digital Ministry Strategy - Episode 163 Oct 07, 2020

"Are there any examples we can follow??"

That's the question we keep getting from pastors. You're realizing you need a digital strategy. You're getting lots of inspiration. But you'd really like to see what this looks like in practice.

So in this episode, Tony and Amy share best practices and stories from real churches around the country who are implementing a digital engagement strategy effectively.

You'll find some practical things you can implement right away, as well as clarity around the longer-term picture of where your church needs to make pivots.

Before you listen, note that this is Part 3 of this series on The New Front Door, so if you haven't yet, go back and listen to the first part (Episode 161) on the three strategies churches need for connecting new people to faith and church, and the second part (Episode 162) on how churches build a digital engagement strategy.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode163.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 162] in your post for reference.

How to Build a Digital Engagement Strategy - Episode 162 Sep 30, 2020

Having a digital strategy isn’t the win.

Helping become disciples of Jesus—and then disciple makers—is the win. But the need for a digital strategy to help you do that isn’t going away anytime soon.

The good news is that if you do the hard work of clarifying the big and small next steps for each part of the faith journey continuum, it gets easier to design strategies that work and monitor ministry health.

In this episode, Tony and Amy share a practical framework—and real-world examples—for helping people take steps digitally in their faith journey.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode162.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 162] in your post for reference.

3 Strategies for Connecting New People to Faith & Church Sep 23, 2020

What is the FRONT DOOR of the church now?

The COVID-19 pandemic moved churches online—but that shift wasn’t really our choice. And what has been revealed through all of this is a huge gap that churches have around their ministry strategies to reach people who are outside the faith and outside the church.

While some churches are already returning to pre-pandemic attendance levels, most mid-size and larger churches are realizing that’s still many months away.

And reaching new people?

How do you reach new guests when most people are staying home most of the time?

The need for a digital strategy isn’t going away anytime soon.

In this episode, Tony and Amy share three critical strategies churches need to engage to open up the new front door of their churches.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode161.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 161] in your post for reference.

Am I the Right Leader? - Episode 160 Sep 16, 2020

We’re hearing uncertainty on the lips of church leaders at organizations of all sizes. They’re asking this question:

“Am I the right leader for our church going forward?”

In most cases, yes, you are. God gave you the role you have for a time like this.

But that questioning you feel might be a sign you need someone walking beside you.

Every good player has a coach. Even the best of the best have a trusted advisor who can pull back the curtain, encourage them, say the hard things and ultimately make them better.

Too often ministry leaders find themselves without that kind of support in their corner. In this episode, Tony and Amy discuss why coaching is vital to helping you be the best leader you can be, and how it will help you lead a healthier church into the future.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode160.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 160] in your post for reference.

Making Organizational Pivots - Episode 159 Sep 09, 2020

It's the catchphrase of stuck organizations... "If it ain't broke, don't fix it."

But healthy, thriving churches and organizations tend to initiate changes before they need to.

And the leaders in those organizations are willing to step out in front and lead significant shifts other people may not be feeling the need to make.

Almost every organization has had to pivot in some way in recent months. From shifting to more digital/less analog, to redeploying team members with new measures for success, significant change has affected nearly all of us.

So what should we learn from those changes that will make us better in the future?

In this episode, Tony and Amy discuss the organizational pivots pastors are asking about, pivots they have been leading at The Unstuck Group, and insights from what we’ve learned along the way.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode159.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 159] in your post for reference.

Accelerating Change: The Life Support Phase - Episode 158 Sep 02, 2020

The last stop before it ends.

If you wait until this phase to lead changes, the changes feel huge. You almost have to become a completely different church if you hope to ever return to sustained health as a ministry.

From our research with 15,000+ churches, more than 85% self-identified as being on the declining side of the typical church life cycle before this crisis began.

And more discouraging—17% landed in “life support,” the last stop before a church closes its doors permanently.

Those churches are most susceptible to closing during normal circumstances, but in situations like we're experiencing now? Things go bad even faster.

In Part 3 of this conversation, Tony and Amy explore Life Support phase, sharing some of the warning signs to watch for and three options churches have when they find themselves here.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode158.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 158] in your post for reference.

Accelerating Change: The Preservation Phase - Episode 157 Aug 26, 2020

Keep people from leaving. That's the priority focus of churches in the Preservation phase of the typical church lifecycle.

Churches in this phase put very little focus on reaching new people for Jesus, and there’s a strong desire to “return to the good old days.”

Decision-making gets bogged down in multiple committees and divisive church boards, making it almost impossible to implement ministry changes.

Financial decline leads to protecting turf, rather than investing in ministry initiatives to grow the church’s Kingdom impact.

Leaders tend to dwell on the problems, blaming those problems on things that are beyond their control (like a global pandemic, for example) rather than investing time and energy into solutions.

Any of that sound familiar?

In Part 2 of this conversation, Tony and Amy explore Preservation phase, and sharing some specific changes churches need to make—and that pastors need to personally lead—if they find themselves here during this season.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode157.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 157] in your post for reference.

Accelerating Change: The Maintenance Phase - Episode 156 Aug 19, 2020

Google “Covid Accelerating Change.” It’s happening everywhere—it’s rapidly changing the workplace, our habits, digitization, how we connect and much more.

Over the past few years, the Church has experienced a significant amount of change. And, like the rest of the world, the pandemic is accelerating these changes—falling in-person attendance, the use of online, fewer new people connecting, and more.

In this episode, Tony and Amy dive into pre- and post-pandemic data, the characteristics of maintenance phase and why these accelerating trends are a way to discern God’s direction for your ministry NOW.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode156.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 156] in your post for reference.

How Joining Churches Take the Follower Role in a Successful Merger - Episode 155 Aug 12, 2020

Following the leader. A merger is always more successful when each church is clear on who leads and who follows.

But for the church in the following role, deciding to merge with another ministry raises difficult questions related to governance, what happens to staff leaders and specific ministries, who has decision rights, and more.

In this episode, Tony wraps up a two-part series by interviewing Warren Bird, co-author of the book Better-Together: Making Church Mergers Work, to discuss how your church can successfully take the following church role in a healthy merger process—and see greater kingdom impact.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode155.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 155] in your post for reference.

How Healthy Churches Take the Lead in a Merger - Episode 154 Aug 05, 2020

Better together? Over the past decade, we've seen a trend in churches merging together for many different reasons... and it seems likely that this trend will only increase in a post-pandemic world.

On the positive side—healthy, mission-focused churches are benefitting:

Multisite: Ten years ago 30% of multisite campuses came by way of a merger; today it’s more than 40%.
Church Planting: In a recent survey we discovered that 20% of church planters found a permanent facility through a merger.
Pastor Succession:We are also seeing mergers as a pastor-succession and a pastor-search strategy.
Denominations and Networks: They're proactively encouraging church mergers as a growth strategy for their healthy churches and as a revitalization strategy for their struggling churches.
Racial Diversity: A small but growing number of church leaders are seeing mergers as a way of becoming more racially diverse.

In this episode, Tony Morgan interviews Jim Tomberlin, co-author of the book Better-Together: Making Church Mergers Work, for the beginning of a two part conversation on the emerging trend of healthy, mission-driven church mergers as an alternative to the old, failure-prone mergers of two declining churches.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode154.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 154] in your post for reference.

The Change Cycle & How to Lead Your Church (and Yourself) Through It - Episode 153 Jul 29, 2020

Paralyzed. Tired. Depressed. Sad. Questioning leadership capacity. Just some of the ways pastors are describing their state of mind right now.

If you're leading in a local church in 2020, you're not only helping others navigate change—you’re also processing it yourself.

But some pastors are also telling us they feel re-energized by the opportunity to do things they didn’t have permission to do before.In this episode, Tony and Amy explore “The Change Cycle” we all go through, and then share some tips on how to lead yourself and others well in a rapidly changing world.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode153.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 153] in your post for reference.

The Key to Reaching NEW People in a Digital World - Episode 152 Jul 22, 2020

The hard truth for outward-focused churches?

New people are probably not going to come to our physical locations to try out church—not for a long time.

In the last few months, the majority of churches shifted to holding services online, and recently, a lot of energy shifted to re-opening in-person services. But even if we take all the precautions and follow the federal and local guidelines... it's going to be a big challenge to get new people to check out our churches in-person going forward.

So, how will churches reach new people in a digital world?

In this episode, Tony and Amy share a simple way to rethink your digital strategy so that it includes a focus on reaching NEW people.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode152.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 152] in your post for reference.

LEADER, then STRATEGY, then STRUCTURE - Episode 151 Jul 15, 2020

How do we DO this? That's the question we're hearing.

The shift from analog to digital ministry is one of the biggest ministry strategy shifts churches are having to make right now.

We reported in our special edition of the Q2 2020 Unstuck Church Report, that 70% of larger churches told us they thinking about how their staffing structure may need to shift permanently to prepare for the new normal.

But when we talk to pastors personally, you’re all asking us the same thing: How do we do this?

And the hard part is, there aren’t really many examples out there. So as we’ve been helping churches process how to move forward, we’ve come back to a tried-and-true approach to evaluating and implementing any key ministry strategy shift.

In this episode, Tony and Amy walk you through 6 steps (and the right sequence of those steps!) to effectively lead your ministry through any major strategy shift, and particularly, from analog to digital.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode151.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 151] in your post for reference.

Leadership Skills You Don't Learn in Seminary - Episode 150 Jul 08, 2020

Annual reviews. Grading on a fuzzy 10-point scale. Infrequent 1-on-1 meetings... we've all be on the receiving end of an ineffective performance management system.

Is there a better way? Does performance management even belong on church staff teams?

Pastors frequently tell us they weren't taught the skills to lead an organization in seminary. When teams are small, it’s easy to lead the staff and keep everyone on the same page. But as a team gets larger, pastors do need new tools to keep the team aligned, productive and growing in their skills and abilities.

In Part 2 of this series on staff leadership issues, Tony and Amy discuss the best system and practices we've seen in churches that effectively manage performance and execute at a high level—and spoiler alert! It's actually very simple.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode150.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 150] in your post for reference.

Clarifying Decision Rights - Episode 149 Jul 01, 2020

Frustration, silos, turf wars and inaction... There might just be a fuzzy decison-making process in your organization. The good news? These are all solvable problems with clear decision rights.

In moments of crisis, it's wholly appropriate for the leader to make more decisions. But now it's time to start shifting to a more collaborative approach to leadership—or you're going to limit the impact that your organization can have in the months and the years going forward.

In Part 1 of a two-part series on staff leadership issues, Tony and Amy discuss this issue of “who gets to make what decisions,” which we find is a challenge with almost every church we coach.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode149.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 149] in your post for reference.

NEW Data on How Churches Are Responding to the Pandemic Today - Episode 148 Jun 26, 2020

We're back from our brief podcast hiatus! And we've got lots of NEW data and stories to share.

We recently partnered with Blackbaud for a special edition of our quarterly research report, The Unstuck Church Report. More than 550 churches shared with us how they're continuing to respond to the coronavirus crisis.

There was some good news:

Churches seem to be finding themselves in a better financial position than they previously anticipated.
Online engagement remains strong compared to pre-pandemic in-person attendance.
And, though most churches have not re-opened for in person services, many are planning on reopening their buildings for weekend services soon.

But there were also a number of things we found alarming, particularly as we consider the long-term ramifications of what we're experiencing right now.

In this episode, Tony and Amy discuss the findings of the survey—along with anecdotal findings from our work helping 50+ churches navigate ministry strategy in the last couple of months—and we share our take on what all of it is telling us about what's coming and how we should be preparing.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode148.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 148] in your post for reference.

Building Alignment: Action - Episode 147 May 27, 2020

Alignment within your church won't happen on accident.

You have to maintain it on an ongoing basis, but if your alignment doesn't lead to clearer ministry priorities and more focused action from your team, it's unlikely you'll see the results you're praying for. In this final and third episode in our Strategic Alignment Pyramid series, Tony and Amy dive into the Action level of the pyramid with a conversation about how organizational goals align to ministry and individual priorities for healthy, strategic action.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode147.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 147] in your post for reference.

Building Alignment: Direction - Episode 146 May 20, 2020

Busy—Everyone’s working hard, but the work isn’t organized. It’s not focused. And honestly—the church isn’t seeing the results you are hoping to see.

Sound familiar? Common symptoms of unclear vision, goals and strategies.

In Part 2 of our series about the Strategic Alignment Pyramid, we examine how it’s possible for your church to do the work of God without doing the work God called youto do—and how to clarify the Directional levels of the pyramid that must be revisited and changed as seasons change.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode146.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 146] in your post for reference.

Building Alignment: The Foundation - Episode 145 May 13, 2020

Times of crisis shine a spotlight on issues like lack of vision clarity and team misalignment.

If you sense the future for your church feels unclear and that your team is not pulling in the same direction, you’re not alone.

In this episode, we kick off a series about a tool—the Strategic Alignment Pyramid—that can help you learn how to reinvent your ministry methods in a way that will unify your entire team around a clear mission and the right priorities.

In Part 1, Tony and Amy discuss the things that stay the same even in times of rapid change—the foundational layers. They need to be defined, but they don’t ever really change.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode145.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 145] in your post for reference.

Clarifying Digital Engagement - Episode 144 May 06, 2020

Overwhelming and confusing—the words pastors have been using when they talk to us about measuring online engagement.

It feels like everyone has been talking about what to measure for the last few weeks, and somehow, it's not getting clearer.

Here's our take: Churches should give the most attention to tracking things that help them make decisions and lead to wins with the bigger picture ministry goals.

Not sure how to do that?

In this episode, Tony and Amy interview Tiffany Deluccia, The Unstuck Group’s director of sales and marketing, to shed some light on how to reframe—and simplify—the wins for measuring engagement.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode144.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 144] in your post for reference.

Pastors: 4 Roles to Prioritize Right Now - Episode 143 Apr 29, 2020

There’s a lot of change happening in our world right now, and likely a lot more to come.

As leaders, we have to be ready to change our ministry strategy, while holding true to our responsibilities as leaders.

In this episode, Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson are diving into the 4 roles a senior pastor can't delegate (ever), and why you need to bring them back into focus TODAY, given what our churches have experienced during recent weeks.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode143.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 143] in your post for reference.

7 Shifts Churches Need to Make Because of the Coronavirus - Episode 142 Apr 22, 2020

What can you do TODAY?

Many pastors are asking us, “When do you think we’ll be able to reopen our churches?” But that’s the wrong question. The question we need to be asking is, “How must the church change for a new normal?”

It will be too easy to go back to doing church the way we’ve always done church when we're safe to gather again. But if we do, we will have missed the opportunity of capitalizing on what God’s teaching us during this interruption. And—this present crisis is accelerating trends related to attendance, giving and engagement we saw emerging before it started.

In this episode, Tony and Amy share seven shifts we think pastors will need to begin leading now for their churches to thrive in the future.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode142.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 142] in your post for reference.

How Churches Responded & Where We Go Next - Episode 141 Apr 15, 2020

Response-Mode. That's where churches have been for the last several weeks.

We surveyed more than 500 churches—ranging from under 100 in attendance to more than 20,000—between April 2 and 6. Generally, the data shows that larger churches were better prepared for this crisis than smaller churches. That’s probably not a surprise.

However, it’s encouraging to see how quickly churches of all sizes have responded. Based on the survey, it looks like the vast majority of churches have settled into a new way of doing church. In this episode, Tony and Amy share some of the data from our survey, as well as their insights into what it's telling us about how we prepare for the future.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode141.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 141] in your post for reference.

Finances & Giving Considerations During COVID-19 - Episode 140 Apr 08, 2020

Money. If it was a challenging topic for church leaders before, it feels all-out tricky right now.

The coronavirus crisis quickly brought many financial challenges to churches, and talking about and managing money has gotten increasingly difficult.

In this episode, Tony and Amy host a conversation with Rick Holliday from North Point Ministries (Alpharetta, GA), David Vaughan from Whitewater Crossing Church (Cleves, OH) and Scott Moore from Eastridge Church (Covington, GA)—three church leaders who are navigating this crisis in their local churches.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode140.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 140] in your post for reference.

Re-Imagine Easter Gatherings - Episode 139 Apr 01, 2020

First ever. How often do we get the chance to do something in a way it's never been done before?

There's no doubt this Easter season will be the first time in our history so many churches will gather online for their celebrations. We have a great opportunity to share the message of Jesus, but is there a risk to relying on the ways we've always done Easter in a moment when nothing is as usual?

In this episode, Tony and Amy, share a conversation on how we need to reimagine Easter in our communication, planning and programming.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode139.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 139] in your post for reference.

Redeeming This Crisis Moment - Episode 138 Mar 25, 2020

You've managed your initial response to the coronavirus crisis. You've canceled church services, moved online, deployed virtual small groups, started working remotely, ramped up communication via email and social media... You're figuring out how to manage the day-to-day.

The crisis is still escalating. "Back to normal" is just a wish. Easter is a few weeks away.

Have you caught your breath yet? We haven't.

But still...

Leaders can't help but look for opportunities in the midst of trials. We sense God's doing something incredible that we're only beginning to see. We believe the Church will shine in this season, and will emerge healthier and stronger.

So if you're a leader already toying with what your church's next steps should be, even if it's too early to start taking them—Dream with us.

In this episode, Tony and Amy dig into opportunities we see for churches for immediate, near-term and longer-term change.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode138.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 138] in your post for reference.

How Pastors Should Respond in Crisis - Episode 137 Mar 18, 2020

Will you redeem the time? While events around the world have brought on growing fear and anxiety, the Church stands on the edge of an incredible opportunity to bring hope.

If your church won’t be holding weekend services or other large gatherings in the coming weeks, your team actually may have more time on their hand than ever before. How will you redeem the time for good?

In this episode, Tony and Amy are exploring how pastors respond effectively in crisis to both communicate hope AND identify opportunities to do things you've ever before had the opportunity to do.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode137.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 137] in your post for reference.

A Special Message For Church Leaders Mar 13, 2020

Needless to say, a lot has changed in our world in the last 48 hours.

While the world around us pauses and isolates to try to combat the spread of the coronavirus, I believe the opportunity has never been greater for the church to shine. And because of that, I think you and your church are uniquely positioned to impact your community.

Even though worship gatherings will likely pause at your church, the time has never been more appropriate for you and your ministry team to be the church.

Blind Spots on the Weekend - Episode 136 Mar 11, 2020

Secret shopper data from the work we do with 100s of churches each year shows us some interesting trends...

Even churches who are clear on their mission field develop blind spots over time. We get used to the way we do things. We don’t see the “dust” anymore, so it becomes harder for us to really see what an outsider sees.

In this last episode of our series on creating compelling weekend services, Amy and Tony discuss 4 blind spots pastors often tell us a Secret Shopper revealed for them, and some next steps we counsel churches to take when those blind spots become visible.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode136.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 136] in your post for reference.

Planning for Remarkable Worship Services - Episode 135 Mar 04, 2020

Overestimating the effectiveness of the weekend?

Every church wants its weekend services to help people grow closer to Christ. But if you're not planning well, great ideas get left on the table.

You're likely missing opportunities to get the best from your team and to lead the people in your seats towards their next steps in faith.

In this episode, Tony and Amy discuss simple adjustments you can make. You might just find yourself marveling at how much easier it becomes to make the weekends remarkable.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode135.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 135] in your post for reference.

Predictable to Remarkable: Compelling Weekend Services - Episode 134 Feb 26, 2020

Boring. Invisible. Unremarkable. Words we'd rather people not use to describe about our church services.

But what are we really doing to make the weekend more compelling?

In her book An Hour on Sunday, Nance Beach said, “The hour can simply be sixty minutes for attenders to survive; a time for minds to wander aimlessly and hearts go untouched. Or maybe, the hour on Sunday can be a time of wonder, a time of transformation, perhaps seen as a time of awe.”

Are you ready to create weekend experiences remarkable enough that people both want to attend themselves and want to invite others to come along?

In this episode, Tony and Amy kick off a series exploring how to do just that.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode134.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 134] in your post for reference.

Balancing Leadership and Management - Episode 133 Feb 19, 2020

Ever heard the phrase "the manager relies on control while the leader inspires trust"?

Over the last several decades, resources and teaching on leadership thrived. But management? It’s often been minimized (at best) or even ridiculed or disparaged (at worst).

It's no wonder organizations often have a difficult time managing the day-to-day execution of their vision and strategy.

In this episode, Tony, Amy and Lance explore how leadership and management can be viewed as complementary essential functions, and how you can take steps to better manage your team towards increased health and performance.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode133.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 133] in your post for reference.

How to Raise Your Team's Productivity by 30% - Episode 132 Feb 12, 2020

Everyone wants to be more productive, and there's an exploding industry of apps, journals and resources that promises to help.

But what if there were a few simple (and free!) steps that could increase your team's productivity by 30 percent?

In this episode, Tony, Amy and Lance share 3 questions to ask in every meeting that could radically impact how your staff gets things done.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode132.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 132] in your post for reference.

Defining DNA - Episode 131 Feb 05, 2020

Think of culture as gasoline and your ministry as an engine.

It’s not enough to have high-quality gasoline. Gasoline is purposeful; it is for powering the engine. A high-octane gas and a powerful engine will get traction quickly.  

Organizational DNA, or culture, is really about the way your team operates. It's how you do what you do.

And if you don’t shape culture intentionally, you might not like where you end up. Fact is, your staff team already has a culture, and it's the one you built, whether you meant to or not.

In Part 2 of this series, Tony, Amy, and Lance Witt explore how your church can more clearly define your DNA so that your staff team can thrive in both health and performance.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode131.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 131] in your post for reference.

How to Develop a High Impact Church Staff - Episode 130 Jan 29, 2020

Team dysfunction. You feel it when you're in it, but can you see it coming? Can you be intentional about the culture you're building so the team stays focused on both relationships and results?

Churches can be clear on mission, vision and how they believe God has called them to operate, and yet... Something can still be broken.

That brokenness often falls into one of two extremes: Either the team is high-performing, but there's interpersonal and leadership dysfunction. Or, the team is relationally healthy, but there's a significant execution gap.

Even in between those extremes, many churches would still say they don’t feel like they’re winning in both areas.

In this episode, Lance Witt joins Tony and Amy to unpack the foundational aspects of intentionally building a high impact team and why it matters so much.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode130.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 130] in your post for reference.

Invite Strategy in a Post-Church Culture - Episode 129 Jan 22, 2020

Taboo. When personal evangelism seems taboo, it's no surprise that invitations to new guests have decreased in many churches.

In 2019 research, Barna Group found that nearly half of practicing Christian millennials felt it is wrong to share their faith.

But what if there were a way to train and equip people to have a better understanding of why and how to talk about church?

In this episode, Tony talks with Michael Lukaszewski, founder of Church Fuel, for a conversation on how to put a spotlight on invitation in your church—including practical ways to get started.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode129.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 129] in your post for reference.

Planning for Sustained Church Health and Growth - Episode 128 Jan 15, 2020

What if all of your ministry planning was aimed at the wrong objectives?

It’s important to regularly check in on your church’s movement in the typical life cycle so you can develop ministry plans that help you continue up the slope towards sustained health—

or reverse the decline that has already begun.

In this last episode of our ministry planning series, Tony and Amy review the typical life cycle of a church, some characteristics of each phase, and how this knowledge can blow up assumptions and help you make ministry plans that actually lead towards ministry health and growth.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode128.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 128] in your post for reference.

Creating a Rhythm of Ministry Planning - Episode 127 Jan 08, 2020

Repetition—It's the key to building strong muscles. It takes repetition to see stronger results. That's because it's the key to getting better at execution, too.

Good planning helps us make the right investment in the right ministry at the right time.

And organizational planning tends to be a new muscle for church leaders to develop. That is, the staff, the pastor and the senior leadership team have to embrace some new disciplines in order to become better stewards of the resources God has given them.

This is why we encourage pastors and leaders all the time to actually set up a rhythm for planning.

In this episode, Tony and Amy share an effective ministry planning rhythm we see WORKING in hundreds of churches across the country.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode127.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 127] in your post for reference.

Hope Is Not a Strategy for the New Year - Episode 126 Jan 01, 2020

Possibilities. With the turning of the calendar, there’s often a renewed sense of hope and a dream of what could be.

We all tend to believe this is the year things will be different. Too often, though, leaders hold onto this hope without a plan to achieve it.

In this episode, Tony and Amy explain why hope is not a strategy for your church and explore some practical ways that you can create a plan for greater ministry impact.

- Why Christians should be the best planners in the world based on what we see in Scripture, and why the old debate of "planning" vs. "relying on the Holy Spirit" is a false dichotomy, and really, just bad theology

- 4 questions you need to answer in any effective planning process, and why we bring in an outside facilitator to help our team plan

- The "sweet spot" number of people to involve in your planning team, plus why the larger a church grows the smaller its planning teams tend to be

- What happens when you involve too many people in planning for the future (Hint: The extroverts get more extroverted, and the introverts get more introverted.)

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode126.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 126] in your post for reference.

What Happened in 2019 - Episode 125 Dec 26, 2019

We're still on a high from a gathering we had in Phoenix a few weeks ago. The Unstuck Group's team members—about 30 of us—got together for our annual meet-up.

Tony shared highlights from the last 12 months of helping churches get unstuck, which included celebrating 10 years of The Unstuck Group, serving our 400th church, kicking off a merger-succession to join Jim Tomberlin's MultiSite Solutions to our team, launching the Multisite Unstuck Course, and adding 5 new team members.

In this episode, Tony and Amy and reflect on what we've learned over the last 12 months helping churches get unstuck and share some things we're celebrating as a team, as well as preview some exciting things that are on the way!

For the full episode transcript and links mentioned during the show, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode125.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 125] in your post for reference.

3 Roles an Executive Pastor Can't Delegate - Episode 124 Dec 18, 2019

The results are pretty predictable… vision stalls out, staff teams can get dysfunctional, and tension can develop in the relationship with the lead pastor.

All because the wins for the Executive Pastor role aren't 100% clear.

In our recent webinar, Dan Reiland, Jenni Catron and Paul Alexander joined Tony for a practical conversation how to get an XP firing on all cylinders. When an Executive Pastor own the roles they can't delegate, the results are a clear path from vision to execution, high impact staff teams, and a lead pastor free to focus on what only he or she can do.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode124.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 124] in your post for reference.

Budgeting To Thrive with Chris Hodges - Episode 123 Dec 11, 2019

When people see their church being led intentionally and efficiently with wise financial decision making, they will become incredibly generous.

Unfortunately, many churches make unwise decisions when it comes to budgeting and planning that result in regular cuts and spending freezes.

Churches can operate with enough healthy margin that will prepare them for some of the amazing opportunities God will send their way—it only requires following a few proven principles.

This week on the podcast we conclude our four part series on financial challenges that churches face today. Chris Hodges from the Church of the Highlands talks about how churches can become more practical in financial planning.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode123.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 123] in your post for reference.

Strategic Financial Planning with Jill Mutimer - Episode 122 Dec 04, 2019

When churches plan their finances strategically, they can fund even the biggest visions and dreams from God.

Unfortunately, poor financial planning can lead to money dictating ministry instead of driving it.

This week on the podcast we continue our four part series on financial challenges that churches face today. Jill Mutimer from the Strategic Consulting Group joins me to talk about how churches can become more strategic in their financial planning.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode122.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 122] in your post for reference.

Money Management for Churches with Dan Dorner - Episode 121 Nov 27, 2019

Churches today are facing more challenges than ever when it comes to their finances.

Discipling givers, managing money and creating annual budgets are complicated issues that every church has to navigate. This week on the podcast we continue a four part series on the specific issues churches face when it comes to money. In this episode, Tony is joined by Dan Dorner from In Rhythm Consulting for a conversation on how churches can better steward their money and resources.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode121.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 121] in your post for reference.

Funding Ministry with Joe Park - Episode 120 Nov 20, 2019

I think most church leaders would agree that they're experiencing some shifts in giving. And while it's not always easy to talk about money, financial means resource our ministry and our church.

In the past 15 years, the percentage of households giving to charity has dropped 18%. Research says that the number one corollary to generosity is being a Christian. With trends showing a significant decrease in generosity, how can we adjust? How can we develop cultures of generosity in the church?

On this week's episode, Joe Park, from Horizons Stewardship, joins me on the podcast to talk all things money and giving.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode120.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 120] in your post for reference.

Leadership Development with Paul Alexander - Episode 119 Nov 13, 2019

How do we develop great leaders?

This seems to be the golden question of church leaders today. But the truth is no organization can thrive without great leadership. And it’s not likely that you’ll stumble upon enough great leaders to maintain the health and growth of your ministry.

When we work with churches, we consistently see a tension with how to not only find potential leaders, but how to develop them, as well. How do you take them to the next level and increase their capacity?

In this episode, Tony and Paul Alexander, Executive Pastor of Sun Valley Community Church in Arizona, are digging into how effective leadership development really works in the context of the church.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode119.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 119] in your post for reference.

Christmas Is the New Easter (Replay) - Episode 118 Nov 06, 2019

Churches decorate, plan and hold extra services—but are we really connecting with the people who only come to church during the most wonderful time of the year?

Our culture still embraces Christmas. Easter? Not so much. Church leaders can leverage this holiday better than any other to generate momentum for reaching people outside the church.

In this replay of a popular episode, Tony and Amy review "the wins" every church can experience during the Christmas season... if they just reframe how they think about it.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode118.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 118] in your post for reference.

10 Things Unstuck Churches Do Right (Part 2) - Episode 117 Oct 30, 2019

It’s possible to grow a church that is not healthy. It’s also possible for healthy churches to get stuck.

But we think the win is for there to be both health and growth in a church. When that happens, we get to celebrate as churches continue to fulfill the Great Commission and make more disciples.

In the second part of this episode series, Tony and Amy unpack the next 5 things on a list we brainstormed of 10 things we regularly see unstuck churches doing right—and all of them stand the test of time.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode117.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode117] in your post for reference.

10 Things Unstuck Churches Do Right (Part 1) - Episode 116 Oct 23, 2019

It’s possible to grow a church that is not healthy. It’s also possible for healthy churches to get stuck.

But we think the win is for there to be both health and growth in a church. When that happens, we get to celebrate as churches continue to fulfill the Great Commission and make more disciples.

In this episode, Tony and Amy unpack the first 5 things on a list we brainstormed of 10 things we regularly see unstuck churches doing right—and all of them stand the test of time.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode116.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode116] in your post for reference.

Insider-itis, Narcissism & Other Reasons Churches Don't Reach More People - Episode 115 Oct 16, 2019

Many people are more familiar with what the church is against than what the Church is for.

Jeff Henderson's new book Know What You're FOR: A Growth Strategy for Work, An Even Better Strategy for Life is all about shifts organizations can make to be for their communities.

In this episode, Jeff joins Tony for a conversation about practical ideas leaders can implement to reframe how their churches think and behave, at the staff and congregational levels, to become a church the community would beg to keep its doors open.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode115.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode115] in your post for reference.

Get Your Church Staff Unstuck - Episode 114 Oct 09, 2019

We’ve found many church staff teams operate in one of two extremes:

They get along with each other but struggle to execute plans... or they are impressively productive but unhealthy and dysfunctional.

The undercurrent is often that we church leaders can get so busy "doing" ministry that we never think about how we "do" team.

It's the Sunday's always coming syndrome. But the truth is, a church's kingdom impact is directly correlated with the health and performance of its team. Your team is the most valuable asset you have in making progress toward your vision.

In this episode, we're sharing a portion of our recent webinar featuring Tony Morgan, Amy Anderson and Lance Witt that focused on what we're learning about healthy, high-performing church staff teams.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode114.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode114] in your post for reference.

Next Steps Engagement - Episode 113 Oct 02, 2019

Churches drift towards an insider-focus over time—more attention is given to discipleship of Christ followers than to effective outreach and evangelism.

How do you fight that tendency? We’ve noted four steps that help churches open their “front door” wider. All four are critical—but we’ve found most churches only have strategies and structure to engage one or two of them.

In this four-part series, Tony and Amy unpack the key steps we see helping churches reach more new guests with the love of Jesus:

Pre-Guest Engagement
The 1st-Time Guest Experience
First Steps Engagement
Next Steps Engagement

In this episode—Engaging Your Mission Field (Part 4)—Tony and Amy unpack how we can do a better job helping people find their place in the body of Christ.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode113.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode113] in your post for reference.

First Steps Guest Engagement - Episode 112 Sep 25, 2019

Churches drift towards an insider-focus over time—more attention is given to discipleship of Christ followers than to effective outreach and evangelism.

How do you fight that tendency? We’ve noted four steps that help churches open their “front door” wider. All four are critical—but we’ve found most churches only have strategies and structure to engage one or two of them.

In this four-part series, Tony and Amy unpack the key steps we see helping churches reach more new guests with the love of Jesus:

Pre-Guest Engagement
The 1st-Time Guest Experience
First Steps Engagement
Next Steps Engagement

In this episode—Engaging Your Mission Field (Part 3)—Tony and Amy dig into how we can better engage new guests beyond the weekend experience, including several key strategies that will help new guests take those first steps.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode112.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode112] in your post for reference.

First-Time Guest Engagement - Episode 111 Sep 18, 2019

Churches drift towards an insider-focus over time—more attention is given to discipleship of Christ followers than to effective outreach and evangelism.

How do you fight that tendency? We’ve noted four steps that help churches open their “front door” wider. All four are critical—but we’ve found most churches only have strategies and structure to engage one or two of them.

In this four-part series, Tony and Amy unpack the key steps we see helping churches reach more new guests with the love of Jesus:

Pre-Guest Engagement
The 1st-Time Guest Experience
First Steps Engagement
Next Steps Engagement

In this episode—Engaging Your Mission Field (Part 2)—Tony and Amy clarify the real “win” for engaging first-time guests.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode111.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode111] in your post for reference.

Pre-Guest Engagement - Episode 110 Sep 11, 2019

Churches drift towards an insider-focus over time—more attention is given to discipleship of Christ followers than to effective outreach and evangelism.

How do you fight that tendency? We’ve noted four steps that help churches open their “front door” wider. All four are critical—but we’ve found most churches only have strategies and structure to engage one or two of them.

In this four-part series, Tony and Amy unpack the key steps we see helping churches reach more new guests with the love of Jesus:

Pre-Guest Engagement
The 1st-Time Guest Experience
First Steps Engagement
Next Steps Engagement

In this episode—Engaging Your Mission Field (Part 1)—Tony and Amy share unpack three elements of an effective pre-guest engagement strategy and how you can get started in your church.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode110.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode110] in your post for reference.

More Church Engagement Q&A - Episode 109 Sep 04, 2019

You had more questions about church engagement—so we are taking this week to answer them.

We recently hosted a webinar on the topic of increasing church engagement, and as part of the event, we fielded questions from people who tuned in. We weren’t able to get through all of the questions live, so in this episode, we’re digging a bit deeper.

We saw some themes in the questions that came in. Participants were asking things like...

How do you measure engagement of people before they attend your church?
How do you engage more empty-nesters in serving?
What does engagement looks like in a transient area, where the turnover every year or two is significant?
Does the nature of the serving (internally within the church vs. externally in the community) have any impact on engagement?
What are best practices for churches who live stream their services to increase engagement from those who watch online?
How do you successfully re-engage people who stop taking steps on your discipleship path?

In this episode, Tony and Amy share their answers to these questions and more!

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode109.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode109] in your post for reference.

Is Multisite on the Downslope? Episode 108 Aug 28, 2019

Bus ministry, cassette tape messages, door-to-door evangelism... all ministry strategies have a lifespan. Is multisite nearing its end?

Recently, some high profile multisite churches made the decision to un-multisite. For a variety of reasons, their ministry strategy has shifted from “one church in many locations” to “multiple independent churches,” some even boldly downsizing to one location.

Do these public shifts in strategy signal the beginning of the end for the multisite era?

In this episode, Tony sits down with Geoff Surratt, pastor and author of The Multisite Revolution, for a conversation on the future of multisite church, and whether or not it's still an effective strategy in today's culture.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode108.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode108] in your post for reference.

Social Media Best Practices for Churches - Episode 107 Aug 21, 2019

What's the "win" for your church's social media activity? If you don’t know, at best you'll waste time and resources, and at worst you’ll do damage to your brand and the potential you have to engage people outside your church.

Social media platforms play a big role in the success of an inbound marketing strategy, and it seems like most churches are struggling to use them well. (Not sure what "inbound marketing" means? We covered it in Episode 61).

Why are they struggling? For one, the nuances of social media are always changing.

In this episode, Tiffany Deluccia from The Unstuck Group's team joins Tony and Amy to help unpack some things you need to know to maximize the potential of social media for reaching more people and increasing engagement.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode107.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode107] in your post for reference.

Increasing Church Engagement - Episode 106 Aug 14, 2019

Engagement—It's the buzz word we hear church leaders discussing across the country. What does it really mean and how do you know if you're hitting a mark?

Truth be told, we find many pastors are confused about engagement. How do we increase it? Why do people show up, come back, plug in or leave?

Recently, Tony, Amy and Sean hosted a live webinar for church leaders on the topic of engagement. In this episode, we're sharing that conversation with you.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode106.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode106] in your post for reference.

Sermon Series Planning - Episode 105 Aug 07, 2019

It’s one of the big responsibilities every pastor has—the planning process for message series.

Few pastors tell us they have a great process. Often, there’s no plan at all, or the plan only goes a few months out and lacks an aspect that brings focus to the big picture. While it may work for the lead pastor’s writing rhythm, it rarely serves the rest of the team well.

In this episode, Tony and Amy talk best practices for taking the frustration out of sermon series planning for both you and your team.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode105.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode105] in your post for reference.

New Guest Connection Strategies for the 21st Century - Episode 104 Jul 31, 2019

It can feel like a losing battle. You want to help new guests feel welcome and decide to return, but how do you even identify them? The most common strategies don't work very well anymore.

Many churches don't have an intentional plan to identify, welcome and follow up with their new guests. And, if they do have a plan, it’s often too cumbersome for a new guest to engage.

In this episode, Tony, Amy and Sean share the method we’ve seen some churches use that's working incredibly well, and how simple it is to bring your guest connection strategy into the 21st century.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode104.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode104] in your post for reference.

Getting Clear on Brand - Episode 103 Jul 24, 2019

The good news is that things have gotten better.

A few decades ago, churches weren’t talking about design or brand or project management or technology.

The bad news? Many churches are doing those things now, but overall our outcomes are not better. Many churches are still in decline, and all this cool stuff we're creating is not putting the mission and vision in action or within reach.

In this episode, Tony and Amy interview Kem Meyer, author of Less Chaos. Less Noise., about how we can reframe our understanding of brand and communications for this decade. Kem also shares a practical tool to help you get started.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode103.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode103] in your post for reference.

3 Reasons Why Your Church Isn't Producing Spiritual Growth - Episode 102 Jul 17, 2019

Church growth vs. spiritual growth. Churches often operate like the two are mutually exclusive.

The truth is, Jesus charged us both with reaching new people and helping them learn to be more like Him. We find unstuck churches are effective on both sides of the equation.

In this episode, Tony and Amy share 3 reasons why churches are struggling to help people grow spiritually, and some practical next steps you can take as a leader to turn things around.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode102.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode102] in your post for reference.

Making Disciples in a Culture of Busy - Episode 101 Jul 10, 2019

167 hours per week. That's how much time people spend doing all the things that don't happen at a weekend church service.

If you're interested in redeeming all that time to help people take next steps in their relationship with Christ, there's one particular strategy we'd encourage you to employ.

And very few churches are trying it.

This episode is all about podcasting. A few reasons to look at your church podcast through a new lens:

32% of the US population is consuming podcast content monthly
22% are engaging weekly
The average weekly podcast consumer listens to 6+ hours of podcast episodes
80% of podcast listeners listen to the entire episode or most of the episode

In this episode, Sean Bublitz joins Tony and Amy to talk about how your church podcast could be so much more than a replay of your weekend message and could help you extend the reach of your church directly into people’s lives.

Listen for a practical discussion about why and how to get started.

For the full episode transcript and links mentioned during the show, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode101.

Get the Beginner's Guide to Starting a Church Podcast

Instead of the usual leader conversation guide, in this episode we wanted to give you something practical to help you get started. So, we created a PDF guide called A Beginner's Guide to Starting a Church Podcast.

Show Notes subscribers get it free. Not subscribed? What are you waiting for?

Subscribe to the Show Notes

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode101] in your post for reference.

Managing Multisite Tensions - Episode 100 Jul 03, 2019

Tension. Your multisite church has some frustration bubbling below the surface if you hear team members asking questions like...

Who do I (really) report to? Who made that decision? Why didn’t they ask me about that? Why can’t we do that?

We find there are 3 areas every multisite church must clarify to reduce tensions in the multisite matrix. In this episode, Tony and Amy dig deep into all of them, and share some practical next steps that will help you get unstuck.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode100.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode100] in your post for reference.

Multisite Warning Signs - Episode 99 Jun 26, 2019

One church. Multiple Locations. It's the mantra of the multisite movement.

But in our experience? Few are truly one unified church meeting in multiple locations.

Instead, what we find is that many multisite churches are connected through one leadership structure, but beyond that, they are splintered in their ministry strategy.

They are really multiple churches trying to operate as one church.

In this episode, Tony and Amy unpack 3 specific warning signs a church that thinks it's using a multisite strategy is really doing... something else.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode99.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode99] in your post for reference.

Developing Leaders for Small Groups - Episode 98 Jun 19, 2019

More leaders. Every pastor we talk to is hoping to find more of them.

But how well are you multiplying the ones you have?

Multiplication is the element of small groups strategy churches tend to leave out. But if you're developing leaders through small groups, that's discipleship that leads to multiplication. You can eventually send them out to start new groups or let them take over existing ones. Then you send out the original leaders as disciple makers to create more.

In this episode, Tony Morgan interviews Chris Surratt. Chris is an author, a ministry consultant at The Unstuck Group, and the Discipleship & Small Groups Specialist at Lifeway Christian Resources.

This is a conversation with practical tips for how you can equip group leaders to build effective, multiplying small groups.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode98.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode98] in your post for reference.

Increasing First-Time Guests - Episode 97 Jun 12, 2019

What if your church's back-door problem is actually a front-door problem?

That's the question Connexus Church in Barrie, ON (yep, Carey Nieuwhof's church) found itself wrestling with several years ago.

In a post-Christian culture like Canada's, it couldn't been disheartening: Realizing that even though they'd been designing the ministry strategy to reach people outside the church they still weren't seeing enough first-time guests to grow like they hoped to.

But after a lot of prayer and a significant strategy change, Connexus Church is seeing more first-time guests than they’ve ever seen—and overall attendance is growing faster than ever, too.

In this episode, Tony interviews lead pastor Jeff Brodie to share the story of what changed.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode97.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode97] in your post for reference.

Culture Champion - Episode 96 Jun 05, 2019

There are some things a senior pastor just can't delegate.

Leaders are often told they're trying to do too much—and it's usually true. But if you succeed at empowering and developing other leaders, where does that leave you? What are the things only the senior pastor can and should do?

In this episode series, Tony and Amy dig deeper into the most popular topic of all time on this podcast: the roles a senior pastor just can't delegate.

We'll unpack the four areas where senior pastors need to focus their time and energy, especially as they grow their churches beyond 1,000.

Part 4 is all about Culture. It really does start at the top of the organization. It is the senior pastor’s responsibility to set the tone for their team and lead the church by example. When done right, not only do you shape the culture of the team, but of the entire church.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode96.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode96] in your post for reference.

Leader of Leaders - Episode 95 May 29, 2019

There are some things a senior pastor just can't delegate.

Leaders are often told they're trying to do too much—and it's usually true. But if you succeed at empowering and developing other leaders, where does that leave you? What are the things only the senior pastor can and should do?

In this episode series, Tony and Amy dig deeper into the most popular topic of all time on this podcast: the roles a senior pastor just can't delegate.

We'll unpack the four areas where senior pastors need to focus their time and energy, especially as they grow their churches beyond 1,000.

Part 3 is all about Leadership. It may sound obvious, but senior pastors need to be the primary leader of leaders in the church. Leadership requires evolution. You can't be the same leader that you were a year ago and expect to keep your church moving forward.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode95.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode95] in your post for reference.

----- Learn how we help churches get unstuck at theunstuckgroup.com.

Teaching - Episode 94 May 22, 2019

There are some things a senior pastor just can't delegate.

Leaders are often told they're trying to do too much—and it's usually true. But if you succeed at empowering and developing other leaders, where does that leave you? What are the things only the senior pastor can and should do?

In this episode series, Tony and Amy dig deeper into the most popular topic of all time on this podcast: the roles a senior pastor just can't delegate.

We'll unpack the four areas where senior pastors need to focus their time and energy, especially as they grow their churches beyond 1,000.

Part 2 is all about teaching. You can't delegate the teaching, and you MUST delegate the things that get in the way of great teaching.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode94.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode94] in your post for reference.

----- Learn how we help churches get unstuck at theunstuckgroup.com.

Vision-Casting - Episode 93 May 15, 2019

There are some things a senior pastor just can't delegate.

Leaders are often told they're trying to do too much—and it's usually true. But if you succeed at empowering and developing other leaders, where does that leave you? What are the things only the senior pastor can and should do?

In this episode series, Tony and Amy dig deeper into the most popular topic of all time on this podcast: the roles a senior pastor just can't delegate.

We'll unpack the four areas where senior pastors need to focus their time and energy, especially as they grow their churches beyond 1,000.

Up first? Vision-casting.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode93.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode93] in your post for reference.

----- Learn how we help churches get unstuck at theunstuckgroup.com.

Pastoral Succession Real Talk - Episode 92 May 08, 2019

Tim Celek and Andrew Brownback have a rare shared experience: They've successfully navigated the passing of the baton from founding pastor of a thriving, growing church to successor who will lead that church for a new generation.

Tim had only recently closed the door on his 40s, when he—with that visionary knack for forward-thinking—started a conversation with his board about succession planning. (In his words, a "spirited" conversation followed.)

Over about a decade, Tim and his team at The Crossing did their research, formed a plan, onboarded Tim's successor, identified the right timing and rolled out a communications plan.

The result? One of the smoothest examples of pastoral succession we've seen, and a thriving church positioned for sustained health.

In this episode, Tony interviews founding pastor, Tim, and current lead pastor, Andrew, to tell the story.

This episode is packed with practical wisdom and recommended resources. Get the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, in this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode92.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode92] in your post for reference.

----- Learn how we help churches get unstuck at theunstuckgroup.com.

Succession Planning with William Vanderbloemen - Episode 91 May 01, 2019

It's all interim work. The sooner you can get your mind around that one point, the sooner you can be freed up to start thinking about what happens next.

In a recent study, Barna Research found that half of the senior pastors in America are 55 or older, and that the number of pastors older than 65 has tripled in the last 25 years.

This week, Tony sits down with William Vanderbloemen for a frank conversation about pastoral succession, the one cardinal rule of planning, and the most common roadblocks to a healthy transition (for both the pastor and the congregation).

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode91.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode91] in your post for reference.

----- Learn how we help churches get unstuck at theunstuckgroup.com.

Church Engagement Report 2019 - Episode 90 Apr 24, 2019

What does "engagement" really mean?

We hear that word buzzing among church leaders, but it's kind of a loose term. You could define engagement however you want.

We recently partnered up with Blackbaud to survey church leaders across the country and find out more about how church leaders are actually defining and measuring engagement

In this episode, Tony and Amy shared a few of the findings that jumped out at us—namely, the differences growing and declining churches are seeing in terms of engagement.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode90.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode90] in your post for reference.

----- Learn how we help churches get unstuck at theunstuckgroup.com.

Church Mergers - Episode 89 Apr 17, 2019

It's a dance. One church leads, the other has to follow.

The data is telling us more than 40% of all multisite campuses today are the result of a church merger or the acquisition of a church building.

How do you ensure a successful outcome?

Jim Tomberlin joins Tony Morgan in this third episode in our multisite series to explain what you need to know about church mergers and how you can leverage this strategy for healthy church expansion.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode89.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 89] in your post for reference.

----- Check out our newest online course—Multisite Unstuck, or learn how we help churches get unstuck at theunstuckgroup.com.

Multisite Q&A with Jim Tomberlin (Part 2) - Episode 88 Apr 10, 2019

90%. That's the success rate surveys are showing churches are having with launching multisite campuses. Five years after launch, they’re still up and running.

What's more—57% of multisite churches are planning to launch another campus in the next 12 months.

Tony Morgan and Jim Tomberlin recently announced that our two ministries—MultiSite Solutions and The Unstuck Group—are coming together. In Part 2 of this episode, Jim says that among the churches that have already launched, he’s still seeing a high confidence in the model.

He joins Tony on the show to talk advice for vision-casting multisite, choosing your model, and the five keys to success that Jim has named over his many years helping churches launch thriving campuses.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode88.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 88] in your post for reference.

----- Check out our newest online course—Multisite Unstuck, or learn how we help churches get unstuck at theunstuckgroup.com.

Reliable Metrics for Church Health & Growth - Episode 87 Apr 03, 2019

Why is Tony so passionate about getting churches to track more numbers?

Really it’s just about being a good steward of the resources God has given us. Stories are important, but the numbers confirm the stories. And... the numbers serve as warning signs that your church is getting stuck.

In this episode, Tony and Amy share how tracking metrics related to the Front/Back Door, Leadership, Engagement & Culture can help you get a more accurate view of your church's health, and how you can use that perspective to take action.

If you haven’t been monitoring church health metrics closely, this episode digs into why you should start now.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode87.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 87] in your post for reference.

----- Learn how we help churches get unstuck at theunstuckgroup.com.

What Church Growth Requires - Episode 86 Mar 27, 2019

Inwardly-focused churches don’t grow. And every church is at risk of becoming inwardly-focused.

It’s the natural tendency over time if intentional steps aren’t taken to address the warning signs when they flash.

In this episode, Tony and Amy discuss what it really means to think like a missionary in your own community, and how making that mindset shift will cause your team to view all of your church's strategies in a different light.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode86.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 86] in your post for reference.

----- Learn how we help churches get unstuck at theunstuckgroup.com.

Over-Programmed Church - Episode 85 Mar 20, 2019

The goal is to equip people to become more like Christ. So why do many churches spend so much time just keeping people busy?

None of us start out intending to lead over-programmed, complex churches, but most of us find ourselves there. This topic of "programs vs. a discipleship path" has gotten a ton of attention in our articles over the years.

How do churches really make disciples? What do you do if your church is over-programmed? Is it possible to shift your strategy to something that more effectively helps people grow to become like Christ?

In this episode, Tony and Amy answer these questions and more.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode85.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions and add your comments about the topic.

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 85] in your post for reference.

----- Learn how we help churches get unstuck at theunstuckgroup.com.

Communication Basics Tripping Churches Up - Episode 84 Mar 13, 2019

They sound simple, but implementing these communications best practices means big operational changes for most churches.

Churches tend to be reactive instead of proactive in their communication—and that's one reason why churches we're guiding through the Unstuck Process almost always self-identify communication as a "core issue" that's getting them stuck.

In this episode, Tony shares the top 3 mistakes he sees churches make when it comes to how they approach communications, and Phil Bowdle, author of Rethink Communication: A Playbook to Clarify and Communicate Everything in Your Church weighs in with his perspective on how churches can get more strategic.

Jesus said, "Go and tell," but he didn't say that had to happen on a Sunday morning platform. Listen to this episode for a fresh perspective on your church's communication strategies.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode84.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday morning, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions, add your comments about this topic, or check out the Show Notes for the questions we plan to discuss!

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode 84] in your post for reference.

Multisite Q&A with Jim Tomberlin (Part 1) - Episode 83 Mar 06, 2019

Tony Morgan and Jim Tomberlin recently announced that our two ministries—MultiSite Solutions and The Unstuck Group—are coming together!

Jim was one of the pioneers of the multisite movement back in the early 1990s and has been helping churches effectively transition from being one church to being one church in multiple locations ever since.

In this episode, Jim joins Tony on the show to discuss the history of the multisite movement, where it is today, bad reasons churches go multisite, the strategy differences between church planting and launching campuses, and more.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode83.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday morning, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions, add your comments about this topic, or check out the Show Notes for the questions we plan to discuss!

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode83] in your post for reference.

____

Check out our newest online course—Multisite Unstuck, or learn how we help churches get unstuck at theunstuckgroup.com.

Church Staffing Pain Points (Part 2) - Episode 82 Feb 27, 2019

Staffing issues get churches stuck. We see it all the time.

We recently took a look at all of the Staffing & Structure assessments The Unstuck Group completed in the last year. We were looking for themes or trends, and boy, did we find some.

In this episode, Tony and Amy share the remaining most common staffing pain points we uncovered in our analysis. They share some indicators these issues are at play in your staff team (even if you haven't been able to clearly define them yet), as well as practical recommendations for addressing them.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode82.

Join the Live Conversation on Social Media

If you're listening on Wednesday morning, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team, including Tony and Amy, will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions, add your comments about this topic, or check out the Show Notes for the questions we plan to discuss!

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode82] in your post for reference.

Church Staffing Pain Points (Part 1) - Episode 81 Feb 20, 2019

Staffing issues get churches stuck. We see it all the time.

We recently took a look at all of the Staffing & Structure assessments The Unstuck Group completed in the last year. We were looking for themes or trends, and boy, did we find some.

In this episode, Tony and Amy share 2 of the 5 most recurring staffing pain points we uncovered in our analysis. They share some indicators these issues are at play in your staff team (even if you haven't been able to clearly define them yet), as well as practical recommendations for addressing them.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode81.

Join the Live Conversation on Social

If you're listening on Wednesday morning, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team, including Tony and Amy, will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions, add your comments about this topic, or check out the Show Notes for the questions we plan to discuss!

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode81] in your post for reference.

Mental Health - Episode 80 Feb 13, 2019

Depression. Loneliness. Anxiety. They're becoming recurring health issues in our culture—even among church leaders. The danger is the secret, being in the condition alone.

Lifeway Research found that 23% of pastors say they've had personal struggles with mental health. Still 49% said they rarely or never speak on the topic to their congregation.

The Unstuck Group's team heard Pastor Chris Hodges from Church of the Highlands give a compelling, practical talk on this subject at a conference last year.

In this episode, Chris shares with Tony some practical things he thinks all pastors need to know—both for your personal mental health and to guide your congregations through these now prevalent challenges.

For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show, and the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode80.

Join the Live Conversation on Social

If you're listening on Wednesday morning, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team, including Tony and Amy, will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions, add your comments about this topic, or check out the Show Notes for the questions we plan to discuss!

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode80] in your post for reference.

Blindspots: Is Your Church Protected? - Episode 79 Feb 06, 2019

It's not something anyone in ministry wants to think about—legal trouble, and the circumstances that could lead to it.

The alarming thing we've noticed is that church leaders are often ignorant of the areas of the law that most pertain to them, both the protections and limitations the law creates.

And that can lead to nightmare situations.

In this episode, Tony invites attorneys Steven Goodspeed and Dustin Gaines from The Church Lawyers to give you a crash course on 4 legal risks they think all church leaders need to be aware of and how to take the appropriate measures to protect your ministry.

For help taking this discussion back to your SLT or board, check out the Leader Conversation Guide in this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode79.

Join the Live Conversation on Social

If you're listening on Wednesday morning, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team, including Tony and Amy, will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions, add your comments about this topic, or check out the Show Notes for the questions we plan to discuss!

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode79] in your post for reference.

4 Worst Practices for Connecting with New Guests - Episode 78 Jan 30, 2019

They're just trying to decide whether or not to come back. And we hit 'em with everything we've got.

We highly value first-time guests... we just don't necessarily know the right ways to show it.

In this episode, Tony and Amy share 4 WORST practices for connecting with new guests that they commonly see when serving churches for The Unstuck Group.

Is your church using any of these strategies? It's time to make a shift.

For links to the resources Tony and Amy mentioned during the episode, visit the Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode78.

Join the Live Conversation on Social

If you're listening on Wednesday morning, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team, including Tony and Amy, will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions, add your comments about this topic, or check out the Show Notes for the questions we plan to discuss!

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode78] in your post for reference.

4 Ways Ministries Embrace Mediocrity - Episode 77 Jan 23, 2019

“The toughest test of a manager is not how they deal with poor performance — it’s how they address mediocrity.”

It's a quote we read in the Harvard Business Review a while back, and boy, is it true. Leaders can tend to blame mediocrity on ineffective employees or volunteers, instead of recognizing our own ineffective leadership as the problem.

In this episode, with a bit of sarcasm, Tony and Amy point to 4 strategies to employ if you want to embrace mediocrity in your ministry. Assuming that's not actually what you want to do, they also share some practical next steps leaders can take to turn the tide.

For links to the resources Tony and Amy mentioned during the episode, visit the Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode77.

Join the Live Conversation on Social

If you're listening on Wednesday morning, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team, including Tony and Amy, will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions, add your comments about this topic, or check out the Show Notes for the questions we plan to discuss!

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode77] in your post for reference.

How Great Missions Turn Into Routine Jobs - Episode 76 Jan 16, 2019

"Great mission turn into routine jobs if they aren't pursued by great teams." Tony made that claim a few months ago, and it stirred up a few strong reactions. Is the team really more important than the mission? What about in a church?

In this episode, Tony and Amy unpack what Tony meant when he wrote that line. Plus! They share the key characteristics The Unstuck Group looks for when adding staff members, as well as 3 tips for creating an environment where teams can accomplish GREAT things.

For links to the resources Tony and Amy mentioned during the episode, visit the Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode76.

Join the Live Conversation on Social

If you're listening on Wednesday morning, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team, including Tony and Amy, will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions, add your comments about this topic, or check out the Show Notes for the questions we plan to discuss!

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode76] in your post for reference.

Ready or Not for Multisite? (Revisited) - Episode 75 Jan 09, 2019

Research, podcasts, writing—you can find a lot published about how people are doing multisite. We see far less written about the actual outcomes of different multisite models and strategies.

Based on experience working in and with many different multisite churches, Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson discuss indicators a church is NOT ready to go multisite, principles that set a healthy foundation for expansion, and key systems differences between single-site and multisite churches—plus, the backwards thinking that results in failed campus launches.

Whether you're leading a multisite church or just considering it someday, this episode is packed with practical application to make you more effective and help you avoid costly missteps.

For more, visit the Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode75.

Join the Live Conversation on Social

If you're listening on Wednesday morning, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team, including Tony and Amy, will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions, add your comments about this topic, or check out the Show Notes for the questions we plan to discuss!

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode74] in your post for reference.

____

Check out our new online course—Multisite Unstuck, or learn how we help churches get unstuck at theunstuckgroup.com

Tony's 2019 Resolutions for Churches - Episode 74 Jan 02, 2019

New year, new church? January finds our best intentions. Maybe it's the cold, maybe it's the afterglow of Christmas—but we rarely come across a church that doesn't have some resolutions for their ministry at the beginning of the year.

In this episode, Tony Morgan shares 4 New Year's Resolutions he hopes church leaders will make in 2019, along with one simple mindset shift that churches can adopt to stick with their resolutions and get more done.

For links to the resources mentioned during the show, visit the Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode74.

Join the Live Conversation on Social

If you're listening on Wednesday morning, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team, including Tony and Amy, will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions, add your comments about this topic, or check out the Show Notes for the questions we plan to discuss!

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup or use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode74] in your post for reference.

How to End Mediocre Weekend Services (Revisited) - Episode 73 Dec 19, 2018

Today we're revisiting a conversation from our most downloaded episode of 2018. We chose to re-release this conversation because it happened so long ago, you may have missed it—AND, because we think this topic is an important one for any pastor to engage again heading into 2019.

Tony and Amy shared the 3 most common issues they see plaguing weekend church services—the things most pastors don't see that keep the overall experience from giving people a compelling reason to show up and invite friends.

Listen to get a fresh perspective on the services you put so much effort into providing, and be encouraged: All of the issues they share are fixable once you see them.

For links to the resources mentioned during the show, visit the Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode73.

Join the Live Conversation on Social

If you're listening on Wednesday morning, when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team, including Tony and Amy, will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on Twitter. Or you can join in on Facebook.

Ask your questions, add your comments about this topic, or check out the Show Notes for the questions we plan to discuss!

If you're catching this episode later, you can still join in! Just tag us @unstuckgroup, use #unstuckchurch, and include [episode73] in your post for reference.

Developing More Strong Teachers - Episode 72 Dec 12, 2018

Almost never. We almost never see a multisite church succeed with live-teaching at each campus. So naturally, we wanted to get to the bottom of why it works so well at Community Christian Church in the Chicago area.

In this episode, Tony Morgan interviews Tammy Melchein about how they've become a church that continually develops and resources new, excellent teachers—which makes this model work.

Not leading a multisite church? Don't skip this episode. The creative systems and strategies CCC has implemented to keep raising up new leaders to teach the Gospel will give you plenty to consider even within your single site.

For links mentioned during the episode, visit this episode's show notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode72.

____

Check out our new online course—Multisite Unstuck, or learn how we help churches get unstuck at theunstuckgroup.com.

5 Barriers to Engaging Volunteers - Episode 71 Dec 05, 2018

Every church could use more volunteers. They're crucial to the life of any church. But the truth is, we never seem to have enough for all of the needs our churches have.

In this episode, Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson discuss the 5 Barriers to Engaging Volunteers and how you can get more volunteers so you can increase your impact.

For more resources and to join the conversation, you can visit this episode's show notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode71.

The 4 Things It Takes To Get Unstuck - Episode 70 Nov 28, 2018

Getting your church unstuck is possible. It's a process that takes time but is effective. Our team is always working on perfecting that process and we have just made it even better.

In this episode, Tony and Amy talk through our newly updated 4 Phase Process for getting churches unstuck and how this process can help your church accomplish its mission and help people take their next steps toward Jesus.

For more resources and to join the conversation, you can visit our show notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode70.

8 Politically Incorrect Thoughts About the Church - Episode 69 Nov 21, 2018

Our heart is always to help the church. But sometimes that means speaking the hard truths that keep us from getting unstuck. Recently, Tony published an article called 20 NEW Politically Incorrect Thoughts on Church in America. As you can imagine, it caused quite the stir.

On this week's episode, Amy and Tony explore his heart and thinking behind 8 of his politically incorrect thoughts and why he thinks they are crucial for churches to getting unstuck.

If you would like to join the conversation and get more resources, you can see the show notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode69.

A Deeper Dive on Church Health Trends - Episode 68 Nov 14, 2018

A few trends jumped out at us from the Q4 2018 edition of The Unstuck Church Report. From increasing vs. decreasing weekly attendance, the relevance of church membership, and whether or not you should fire all of your part-time staffers... In this episode, we're sharing the conversation Tony, Amy, Sean, and Michael had on a recent live webinar. It gets down into the nitty-gritty of what the numbers mean for your church.

You can join the conversation and get more resources by going to the Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode68.

Why Church Architecture Is Critical to Your Ministry Strategy with Mel McGowan - Episode 67 - Nov 07, 2018

Your church building might be saying more than you think. Your architecture is either helping or hindering your ministry. From the design to the people in charge of it all, there are ways to leverage your church building that actually help your church's mission.

Mel McGowan is Co-Founder of PlainJoe Studios as well as a church architect. In this conversation with Tony Morgan, Mel shares compelling thoughts on the theology of church architecture and practical insights into the building process.

For more resources and to join the conversation you can go to the show notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode67.

Lance Witt on Balancing Health & Performance on Your Team - Episode 66 Oct 31, 2018

Do you ever feel like you have to choose between creating a healthy team culture and getting results? It doesn't have to be that way.

Lance Witt is the author of Replenish: Leading from a Healthy Soul and is a former executive and teaching pastor at Saddleback Church. In this episode, Tony and Lance discuss how to lead your team to find the essential balance between health and performance.

You can find more resources including this episode's FREE Discussion Guide and join the conversation by going to theunstuckgroup.com/episode66.

4 Signs Your Church Is Inwardly Focused - Episode 65 Oct 24, 2018

Has the way you do church become more important than why you do church? It's tempting to try to keep the people you already have happy. But the moment you stop focusing on reaching non-believers, you've become stuck.

In this episode, we identify four signs that your church has become inwardly focused and give some solutions on how to reach new people.

You can see the show notes, download the Conversation Guide, and join the conversation at theunstuckgroup.com/episode65.

Why Your Worship Leader Shouldn't Lead the Creative Team - Episode 64 Oct 17, 2018

Your worship leader is great. That doesn't mean he or she should lead your Creative Team. Music is obviously creative, but we need more creativity in our churches than just music—and we very rarely find worship leaders who are equipped or able to lead more than music.

Hiring leaders who can focus on the creative aspects of your church allows your musicians to do what they do best while still getting stuff done. In this episode, Tony and Amy talk about who should be leading your creative team and how to structure your creative team to make the most of it.

You can find resources from this episode and join the conversation by going to the show notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode64.

These Are Killing Your Church - Episode 63 Oct 10, 2018

Are events killing your church? Every church has events, but not every church knows why. Events have the potential to be helpful for people to take their next steps toward Jesus, but it's rare that they actually work.

In this episode, Tony and Amy discuss 6 questions to ask when planning events as well as 5 ways to make your events effective.

There is a ton of great information in this episode and we created a Discussion Guide to go along with it if you'd like to take this conversation to your next leadership team meeting. To get the Discussion Guide and join in on the conversation visit http://www.theunstuckgroup.com/episode63.

2 Common Barriers to Effective Church Leadership - Episode 62 Oct 03, 2018

We've found 12 common issues that routinely cause churches to get stuck. In this episode, we cover two important ones that have something in common: leadership. Whether it's senior leadership or volunteer leaders, if we're not structuring our churches in a way that sets leaders up for success then our churches will become stuck.

In this episode, Tony and Amy discuss two leadership issues churches face and how to solve them so your church can grow and get healthy.

Join in the conversation and see the show notes at theunstuckchurch.com/episode62. We also discuss the Leading from an Unstuck Church Course in this episode. Find more details and sign up at theunstuckgroup.com/course.

Why Church Communications Is Stuck in 2004 - Episode 61 Sep 26, 2018

What's one thing we almost never see a church doing well? Even the big ones? Content strategy. And that's just one reason why church communications is stuck in 2004.

We're living through the biggest communication shift in 500 years. As fewer people attend church and more utilize the web for every aspect of their lives, our churches can't afford to not have a strategy. This isn't an add-on to our ministry; it's a full scale shift.

In this episode, Tony and Amy interview The Unstuck Group's Marketing and Communications Director, Tiffany Deluccia, about how the world has shifted, why your church needs to be thinking about "inbound marketing," and the tools you can use to make it happen.

This episode shares a ton of resources that will help you create and execute an online strategy so you can reach more people! Find the resources from Episode 61, including links to the tools mentioned during the show, in the Episode Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode61.

Andy Stanley on Rethinking a Text-Based Faith - Episode 60 Sep 19, 2018

Andy Stanley wants us to rethink how we read the Bible. In his new book, Irresistible, he addresses questions like: What do we do with the Old Testament commands? Are Christians obligated to follow the 10 Commandments? What did Jesus think of the Old Covenant?

In this episode, Tony Morgan asks Andy to weigh in on why a "Mix & Match Theology" is so prevalent in our churches, why Jesus' one command makes our faith generationally transferrable, and how we go back to where our faith began to better understand how to connect with the next generation.

Check out the show notes for more resources on this topic, links from this episode and to join the conversation at theunstuckgroup.com/episode60.

Stuck Staff Structures - Episode 59 Sep 12, 2018

Is your staff structure a lid? It's worth digging into. We hear this all the time from churches we're serving: "I knew we needed the ministry health assessment. I knew we needed to plan for the future. But we didn't even realize our real problem was our staff and structure."

In this week's episode, Tony interviews Amy on the most common structure challenges she sees getting churches stuck and some practical ways you can pivot to get healthy.

Check out the show notes for more resources on this topic, links from this episode and to join the conversation at theunstuckgroup.com/episode59.

Tony Morgan on 20 Years In Ministry - Bonus Episode Sep 10, 2018

20 years of ministry. Tony Morgan left his job in city management to enter full-time ministry as a pastor at Granger Community Church.

In this week's bonus episode, Tony shares the story of how he got started in ministry, the people who encouraged him along in this path, the challenges he faced, and how he met Jesus in the first place. There is one big takeaway that Tony has from his 20 years in ministry and in this episode, he shares it with us.

Tony wrote a post exploring this more on his blog.

Rogue Ministries - Episode 58 Sep 05, 2018

Rogue ministries. We all know the signs. Ministries in our church that are fundraising on the side or creating separate branding. Leaders who think their ministry is more important than the others in the church. What went wrong and how do we fix it?

In this episode, Tony and Amy share 4 ways to realign rogue ministries with your church’s mission, vision, and strategy. The fourth one might step on some toes but it needs to be said.

Find the resources from Episode 58, including links to the tools mentioned during the show, in the Episode Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode58.

Become a Church That Gets Stuff Done - Episode 57 Aug 29, 2018

Sunday's always coming. You've heard it said. You may have said it yourself, frustrated with the lack of progress your team makes on the ministry's plans. But is it just that? Or is it that another meeting's always coming? Or that decision rights are confused? Or that key members of the team manage projects with Post-It Notes instead of an effective system?

In this episode, Tony and Amy outline 4 proactive steps taken by teams that execute really well. (And there's a bonus fifth thing those teams DON'T do.)

This episode shares a ton of resources that will help you get more stuff done. Don't miss out! Find the resources from Episode 57, including links to the tools mentioned during the show, in the Episode Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode57.

Carey Nieuwhof: The Cynicism Problem & Antidote - Episode 56 Aug 28, 2018

We get into ministry full of hope. But something happens along the way, and we don't see it coming: We become cynical leaders. We let ourselves project past failures onto the future. We get stuck in our own heads.

In this bonus episode, Tony Morgan interviews Carey Nieuwhof about leadership setbacks, ministry burnout, and a wonderful aspect of life we give up when we let ourselves become cynics.

Find more resources from Episode 56, including links mentioned during the episode and bonus material, in the Episode Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/56.

Thom Rainer on How to Become a Welcoming Church - Episode 55 Aug 22, 2018

Friendly, but not welcoming. That's how Thom Rainer describes the situation at a lot of churches. And he would know—as the current CEO of Lifeway, in addition to his time leading Rainer Group, pastoring a church, serving as a dean at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and authoring more than two dozen books, he has a unique vantage point.

Tony and Thom discuss common barriers preventing churches from becoming welcoming, why small churches have a welcoming advantage, and how to better serve first-timers in the moment when they feel most awkward at church.

Find more resources from Episode 55, including links mentioned during the episode and bonus material, in the Episode Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/55.

5 Ways to Help the Driver Drive | The Unstuck Church Podcast | Episode 54 Aug 15, 2018

How do you adjust to whoever is leading your team? Do you refuse to change your leadership style? Or do you lean into what that leader has for you?

In this episode, Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson switch places as Tony interviews Amy about what it's like to work for someone with a "driver" personality. She explains five ways to adjust to these types of leaders and why being adaptable ultimately strengthens your church.

When the Lead Pastor Sits in the Driver's Seat | Episode 53 Aug 08, 2018

Do you have a driver in the driver's seat? In Episode 47, Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson described the 4 types of leaders they often see on church staff teams. This week they take a deeper look into what it means to have someone wired as a "driver" serving as the lead pastor, and how it affects both that leader and the rest of the people on the team.

Tony also shares some common blindspots for drivers, and 3 practical tips for overcoming them to lead a healthier team.

6 Ways to Solve Your Communication Problems | Episode 52 Aug 01, 2018

Whenever our team at The Unstuck Group is working with a church, the churches almost always mention their problems with internal communication. Over the years we have found that if you think you're having a communication issue, it's probably just masking a different problem that your church is facing.

In this episode of The Unstuck Church Podcast, Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson discuss what these root issues are and how to solve them.

The Greatest Hits - Episode 51 Jul 25, 2018

50 episodes of The Unstuck Church Podcast, in the books. We're taking a look back at the 5 most downloaded episodes to date, and Tony and Amy share a few new thoughts on those most popular topics.

Put Your Money Where Your Crowd Is | Episode 50 Jul 18, 2018

When planning your annual budget, it can be easy to want to give all of your ministry areas the same amount of funding. However, like Tony points out in this week's episode, "life isn't fair."

When planning your budget, you need to strategically plan where you're going to allocate funds and how much you want to spend. In the 50th episode of The Unstuck Church Podcast, Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson explain the Biblical principles behind budgeting and how to utilize them in your church.

4 Barriers to Engaging Your Volunteers | Episode 49 Jul 11, 2018

The Bible teaches church leaders that they must equip God's people to do His work. A church that is not properly engaging with its volunteers is a church not walking in its full God-given calling.

In this episode, Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson discuss the four main barriers they see in churches when it comes to enlisting, utilizing and equipping healthy volunteers within the church body.

How to Increase Your Leadership Capacity | Episode 48 Jul 05, 2018

While it's not something we like to admit, at some point we have to face the facts: God did not create everyone to be a leader. And for those of us who are leaders, we are gifted to lead in various capacities. However, God gives us opportunities to grow and stretch our leadership abilities.

In this week's episode, Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson explain how to identify, label and increase your staff's leadership capacities.

Who’s Missing on Your Leadership Team? | Episode 47 Jun 27, 2018

There’s a common gap. We see it on too many church leadership teams. It results in lack of follow-through, lack of role clarity, and a “Sunday’s always coming” mode of operation.

In this episode, Tony and Amy highlight why church leadership should be a reflection of the whole Body of Christ. They break down four different “wirings” they typically see in church staffing, and the next steps you can take if you recognize you have a crucial gap on your leadership team.

Trends in Growing and Declining Churches – Part II | Episode 46 Jun 19, 2018

Two weeks ago, Tony and Amy started a conversation on some unexpected findings related to ministry leadership in growing and declining churches from The Unstuck Group's latest research. As promised, they are back with more to share. While the results may surprise you, remember that the information is based on numbers and not opinion—even if the truth is hard to swallow at times.

Show Links:

5 Ways to Impress Your Church's First-Time Guests | Episode 45 Jun 13, 2018

In this week's episode, Tony interviews Amy about the most common "misses" she sees when churches welcome first-time guests. Whether it's a crowded bulletin or a lengthy message, these issues typically have easy (and inexpensive) solutions.

Trends in Growing & Declining Churches - Episode 44 Jun 07, 2018

Data from 200 churches of all different sizes. What did it show? A few surprising trends related to growth and decline.

In this episode, Tony and Amy dig into some fascinating findings from The Unstuck Group's most recent edition of The Unstuck Church Report. Just to be clear: this isn’t a comparison of big versus small. The data includes churches that average fewer than 100 people and megachurches with 2,000+ people. The factors correlating to growth and decline seem to be irrespective of your congregation's size today.

Five Common Mistakes When Hiring Campus Pastors - Episode 43 May 30, 2018

Sometimes leading a multisite church can lead to being “multi-stuck”. However, having equipped campus pastors can help prevent this.

In this episode, Tony and Amy discuss the five major mistakes that lead pastors can make when hiring a campus pastor. Tony explains why he is passionate about multisite churches using video message delivery, and why someone who mostly agrees with you may actually be more dangerous to your mission than someone who completely disagrees with you.

____

Check out our new online course—Multisite Unstuck, or learn how we help churches get unstuck at theunstuckgroup.com.

Core Issues We're Seeing in Stuck Churches - Episode 42 May 23, 2018

We see them again and again: The same core issues getting churches stuck. But we don't think it has to be that way. Church leaders who make themselves aware of the pitfalls can avoid them.

In this episode—recorded live on Facebook—Tony and Amy discussed five of the most common issues getting churches stuck. They also took questions from the audience, like "What are some practical steps to simplifying if your church is too complex?" and "What do you do if the lead pastor is too involved in every decision?" Plus, Tony tells us why he doesn't care what your church's mission statement is.

5 Practices to Multiply Leaders in the Church - Episode 41 May 16, 2018

The research showed it: Only 4% of growing churches are multiplying/reproducing churches. Why is that? All churches have leadership potential sitting in their services but a culture of discipling leaders is often missing.

In this special episode, Tony talks with Dave Ferguson, lead pastor at Community Christian Church, an innovative multi-site missional church with eleven locations in Chicago, about 5 essential practices for leaders to multiply leaders.

How to Lead When You're Not In Charge - Episode 40 May 09, 2018

What if Andy Stanley were your boss? When we sit lower on the org chart than a great leader—or even a not-so-great leader—it's easy to feel stuck on the sidelines waiting to be given more authority.

In this episode, Tony talks with Clay Scroggins, lead pastor at North Point Church, about what it's like to lead "in the shadow of Andy Stanley," the difference between leadership and authority, how to cultivate influence wherever you are today.

Show Me the Money - Episode 39 May 02, 2018

No one gets into ministry for the money. But does that mean church leaders should be paid less? In this episode, Tony and Amy share a biblical foundation for paying staff well, how to practically make it possible, and some simple ways to evaluate how much you should be paying the staff at your church.

Tony also gives podcast listeners the very first sneak peek of a new resource from The Unstuck Group to help pastors lead unstuck churches. You'll find more at theunstuckgroup.com/equip.

The Systems Lid to Growth Apr 25, 2018

When churches don’t have systems in place, even the smallest decisions rise all the way to the top for senior leadership to decide. And this might work for a while—but not if you want your church to grow.

Leaders are problem-solvers, and often want a say in every decision that is made. In this episode, Tony and Amy discuss why this isn’t always the best thing for the team, and how putting healthy systems in place can alleviate the issue.

Which Comes First: More Staff or More Growth? Apr 19, 2018

A lot of the time, the churches we work with aren’t truly stuck—just stalled. Why? They've failed to properly staff their critical growth engines.

Every growth engine and priority ministry in your church needs a leader and champion—paid or volunteer. In this episode, Tony and Amy discuss when to staff ahead for future growth, and how you can put this into practice even with limited finances.

Split Your Church in 5 Simple Steps Apr 11, 2018

No one sets out to pastor a church that splits, but leaders operate in ways that ultimately take their churches there.

Can church splits be avoided? In this episode, Tony and Amy discuss five things church leaders do that set the stage for irreconcilable differences.

Holding Onto How We Do Church Apr 04, 2018

We all have this tendency—to hang on tightly to current methods and hope for different results. In churches, it can happen just as often in "contemporary" circles as "traditional."

What indicates that how you do church has become a sacred cow? In this episode, Tony and Amy unpack the primary reason we see churches get stuck.

How to Decide It's Time to Fire Mar 28, 2018

It's ultimately a matter of stewardship—but churches rarely fire people. Even Tony's young son asked the question one time: Why is that? In this episode, Tony and Amy discuss some basic principles every pastor needs to understand, and why performance and character issues aren't the only reasons you should consider letting a staff member go.

Breaking Barriers: Reaching 2,000 & Beyond (Part 2) Mar 21, 2018

Growth barriers. Every church hits them. How do you respond when what was working no longer is? In a recent webinar, Tony Morgan hosted a conversation with leaders from several very large churches about breaking barriers. In the second part of this conversation, you'll learn about common multisite model missteps and how they set you back, as well as the all too frequent issue of "complexity creep" that can undermine your vision.

Breaking Barriers: Reaching 2,000 & Beyond (Part 1) Mar 14, 2018

Growth barriers. Every church hits them. How do you respond when what was working no longer is? In a recent webinar, Tony Morgan hosted a conversation about breaking barriers with leaders from several very large churches. In this first part, you'll learn how to recognize a toxic culture and turn it around, as well as how to overcome a leadership void in your staff and volunteer teams.

7 Frustrating Symptoms of Doing Ministry Without a Strategy Mar 07, 2018

Church splits. Ministry silos. Lack of giving. Doing ministry without a strategy can create serious pain.

In this episode, Tony and Amy share why not having a plan is the same as having a plan to do nothing, and they highlight some of the most common—and most frustrating—things leaders experience when they refuse to develop a clear strategy.

Leaders See Stuckness First Feb 26, 2018

You sense it—even when others don't. True leaders have a gift from God to see what the congregation and even lay leaders haven't seen yet. In this episode, Tony and Amy talk about the gift and responsibility pastors have to lead change for the health of the Church.

Your Church Has Broken Systems Feb 19, 2018

Every church has them—ineffective systems. Why? Partly because systems must constantly be evaluated and edited for results. In this episode, Tony and Amy share how to differentiate a systems problem from a people problem, the most common clogged systems churches have (One is vitally important!), and a 6-step process you can follow to fix them.

Tony also shares a story about a broken system at a popular restaurant chain. The key phrase was "clogged beef tube." You won't soon forget the analogy.

How to End Mediocre Weekend Experiences Feb 12, 2018

Unstuck churches never stop looking to improve their weekend experiences. Tony and Amy discuss why it's important to provide compelling and memorable services every single week.

You Don't See What You Don't See Feb 05, 2018

Greater impact sometimes requires an outside perspective. Tony and Amy share why so many churches get comfortable with the familiar and how it keeps them from making the necessary changes for growth.

7 Trends To Keep An Eye On Jan 29, 2018

Based on our recent data, there's plenty of room for optimism for today's church! Attendance and baptisms are increasing and many churches are expanding to multiple services and locations. Although these are all positive indicators, there are still some red flags that stuck churches are ignoring. Tony and Amy discuss some key trends and takeaways that churches may be overlooking.

The Discipleship "Funnel of Doom" Jan 15, 2018

Teaching is just one way to help people take their next steps toward Christ. But churches have a tendency to get stuck in a cycle of teach-promote-teach-promote: Each next step we invite people to take is another teaching environment. In this episode, Tony and Amy discuss some important discipleship elements that will help people put what they are learning into practice.

Church Structure: Optimizing For Growth Jan 08, 2018

Our mission is simple—What church doesn't want to grow by helping more people meet Jesus? But structuring a team for growth doesn't necessarily come naturally to most church leaders. In this episode, Tony and Amy share 3 key areas you need to optimize to structure your church for growth.

Pruning! 3 Ministry Areas to Tackle Dec 27, 2017

It's nobody's favorite activity. But unfocused churches have competing events, programs and ministries that pull them in all different directions. Tony and Amy discuss three areas that both healthy and unhealthy churches need to prune.

Bad Meetings Dec 18, 2017

Meeting dread—It's real. Tony and Amy share principles for meetings that work (aka: meetings that don't waste time and money and actually help create positive action), and a quick formula to self-assess your organization's meeting track record.

4 Shifts to Revitalize a Church Dec 11, 2017

Plateaued. Declining. Stuck. Church revitalization isn't easy. In this episode, Tony and Amy share four shifts your church can make now to lead it towards growth and health in the future.

Should You Un-Multisite? Dec 04, 2017

We're seeing a new trend: Churches that were one church in multiple locations are shifting to multiple churches in multiple locations. Is multisite still a great way to grow? Tony and Amy discuss this un-multisiting trend.

____

Check out our new online course—Multisite Unstuck, or learn how we help get churches unstuck at theunstuckgroup.com.

Christmas Is the New Easter? Nov 24, 2017

Our culture still embraces Christmas. Churches decorate, plan and hold extra services. But are we really connecting with the people who only come to church during the most wonderful time of the year? Tony and Amy review "the wins" every church can experience during the Christmas season.

Marriott and Church Makeovers Nov 20, 2017

It's a simple fact: Before people become Christ followers, they are consumers. Do our sacred spaces create a barrier to sharing the gospel? Tony and Amy discuss what churches could learn from Marriott about serving people through your church facilities.

Pastor Math 101 Nov 13, 2017

Did you earn an A in Pastor Math Class? Ok, so that's not be a real seminary course, but every pastor we meet knows the material. Whether you lean towards measuring everything, or eschewing numbers in favor of stories, there is one number you simply cannot ignore -- and it's probably not what you think.

3 Roles a Senior Pastor Can't Delegate Nov 06, 2017

In the weeds. That's where many senior pastors live. It's not usually a pride issue -- more a question of role clarity. Tony and Amy discuss the three roles only the senior pastor can do for a church, and why you should give yourself permission to delegate everything else.

Are You Developing Leaders? Oct 23, 2017

Many churches have figured out how to gather a crowd of people for worship on Sunday but helping them take next steps toward Christ is a whole different challenge. This episode helps you understand the “why” behind leadership development.

Is Your Church Building The City? Sep 11, 2017

God's vision is bigger than just your church. This episode will challenge you to build a relationship with your city by loving and serving your community.

Is Your Multisite Strategy Working? Aug 14, 2017

What words would you use to describe your current multisite strategy? Healthy? Replicable? Growing? Effective? Or is it Confusing? Unsustainable? Stagnant?

Are you looking to launch or expand your multisite strategy? Check out this episode to learn more.

Church Staff Teams Don't Follow-Through (Part 1) Jul 10, 2017

Does your team spend more time talking about ideas than doing them? Instead of chasing rabbits, maybe it's time to start doing what you say you are going to do.

This episode addresses why many church teams struggle with follow-through and provides tools and next steps for making ideas happen.

Church Staff Teams Don't Follow-Through (Part 2) Jun 12, 2017

Is your church all talk and no action? Most teams don't experience a lack of inspiring meetings. Perhaps it's time to buckle down and start following through on your plans.

This episode looks at some of the challenges churches face when executing plans and provides practical next steps for making decisions and taking action.

Staff vs Congregational Leadership May 22, 2017

Does choosing a new shade of paint for the lobby require approvals from three different committees at your church? Maybe it's time to start asking if your current structure is the best way to make decisions.

This episode addresses challenges that both staff-led and congregation-led churches face and provides clear roles for effective lay leadership boards.

7 Phases in the Life of a Church May 16, 2017

Is your church growing? Healthy? Diminishing? There are 7 stages in a typical church's life cycle that range from the hopeful, optimistic days of launch, to the stagnating last stages of life support.

This episode unpacks each phase of the church lifecycle, and offers specific and strategic next steps you can take to find your way to sustained health . . . and finally become unstuck.

Do You Lead with a Scarcity Mentality? Apr 17, 2017

What if our volunteers find somewhere better to serve? Are we offering them enough opportunities? Why does it seem like they are just not interested anymore? A scarcity mentality can get your church stuck.

Everyone is competing for people's time. Instead of only focusing on how volunteers can fill spots in your church, what would happen if you empowered them to impact the world with their gifts and abilities everyday?

Is That Church Built on a Big Personality or Jesus? Mar 20, 2017

Magnetic. Inspiring. Charismatic. Visionary. God-given personality gifts or problems waiting to happen?

Big personalities are attractive, and bad things happen when a church is built more on the big personality of the pastor than Jesus. But actually... that's true of any personality type.

Show Links:

When Big Personalities Lead Big Churches

Why Staff Health Is A Blind Spot for Most Lead Pastors Feb 13, 2017

Toxic? Empowering? Fear-Driven? Collaborative? The team culture you have is the one you built. But that doesn't mean your impression of it is accurate. What if you're the last to know your church staff culture is not what you thought?

In Season 1, Episode 6 of The Leadership Unstuck Podcast, Tony, Ryan and Amy talk about span of care, healthy pace of life in ministry and other practical steps to grow a healthy team... because most lead pastors aren't thinking about staff health.

Show Links:

7 Questions that Measure Team Culture

Measuring the Health of Your Senior Leadership Team

Take Time Off: 4 Guidelines for Establishing Healthy Pace of Life for Staff

7 Warning Signs Your Church Has Ministry Silos

5 Dysfunctions of a Team Resources

How To Fix Your Church's Planning Problems Jan 23, 2017

Church + effective planning? The two words aren't often found together. Are you making these mistakes in your planning process?

In Season 1, Episode 5 of Tony Morgan's Leadership Unstuck Podcast, Tony talks to Shayne O'Brien, Lead Pastor of RockPointe Church in Leander, Texas about how to avoid some of the mistakes churches make in their planning process.

Show Links

The 4 Phase Planning Process for Church Leaders

How to Stick to Your Strategic Plan

Why the Key to Flexibility In Leadership Is Planning

Developing a Theology of Planning

Is Your Church Too Complex? Dec 06, 2016

They're bloated. Over-programmed. Hard to navigate. Why do churches become so complex over time?

In Season 1, Episode 4 of Tony Morgan's Leadership Unstuck Podcast, Tony talks to Joe Dobbins, Lead Pastor of Twin Rivers Worship Center in St. Louis, MO about why churches tend to become so complex over time and how to de-program and reduce complexity.

Show Links

Staff Meetings Unstuck: Reducing Complexity with a Discipleship Path

Holiday Food Personality Quiz

Complexity: Why Do Churches Become Over Programmed?

Complexity: What Ministry Programs Do We Stop?

Complexity: Streamlining the Ministry Event Calendar

Complexity: How to Bury a Ministry Program

5 Common Myths Program Driven Churches Believe About Effectiveness

Learn more about The Unstuck Group

Are Your Services Too Predictable? Oct 24, 2016

Predictable church services create sleepy, unengaged attendees.

In Season 1, Episode 3 of Tony Morgan's Leadership Unstuck Podcast, Tony talks to Gabe Kolstad, Lead Pastor of Westside Community Church in Beaverton, Oregon about the creative process and how to make church services less predictable.

Show Links

Predictable: It Feels Like I Am Attending the Same Worship Service Every Sunday

Predictable: 9 Reasons Your Church Services Are Stuck in a Rut

Predictable: 4 Biases to Promote Creativity and Make Services More Engaging

10 Keys to Leading Creative People

Why Creativity Matters in the Church

Top 2 Creativity Crushers

Learn more about The Unstuck Group.

Do You Have What It Takes To Lead Change? Sep 13, 2016

Tradition is powerful. How do you lead a church in a new direction when the motivation for change is low (or nonexistent)?

In Season 1, Episode 2 of Tony Morgan's Leadership Unstuck Podcast, Tony talks to Jerry Sweat, Lead Pastor of Beach Church in Jacksonville, Florida about what it takes to lead change.

Show Links

Leading Change: The Cycle to Expect

Do You Have What It Takes To Lead Change?

Sacred Cow Tipping

Where Your Sacred Cows Come From: Sacred Cow Tipping (Part 2)

Why a Leader Often Needs to Be Mean

4 Ways to Navigate Change in Ministry

Beach Church Website

Learn more about The Unstuck Group.

Do You Know Your Customer? Sep 12, 2016

Trying to reach everyone? That strategy rarely reaches anyone effectively.

In Season 1, Episode 1 of Tony Morgan’s Leadership Unstuck Podcast, Tony talks to Ty Bean, Senior Pastor of Cowboy Junction Church in Hobbs, New Mexico about why churches should pinpoint the exact kind of person they are trying to reach.

Show Links:

4 Reasons Why Churches Become Insider-Focused

Churches Do Not Want To Reach New Customers

Do You Know Your Customer?: 5 Felt Needs for Reaching Professionals Outside the Faith

Who Is Your customer?

Why People Like Starbucks More Than Your Church

6 Ways We Ignore Unchurched Guests on Easter

10 Symptoms of an Inwardly-Focused Church

Learn more about The Unstuck Group.