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Have you ever stopped to think about how different generations view the world, the church, and even the gospel? In kids ministry, we often focus on reaching the next generation—but understanding where they've come from and who’s come before them is just as important. Every generation brings its own values, challenges, and perspectives to the table, and as ministry leaders, we have the opportunity—and responsibility—to bridge those gaps.

Chuck Peters and Jana Magruder unpack the unique characteristics of each generation—from the Silent Generation and Baby Boomers to Gen X, Millennials, Gen Z, and Gen Alpha. Jana explores how generational traits influence ministry approaches, communication styles, and discipleship strategies while Chuck emphasizes the need for ministry leaders to adapt, fostering intergenerational connections and creating spaces where all generations can grow together in faith.

Whether you're new to next gen ministry or a seasoned leader, this conversation offers practical insights and inspiration to help you lead more effectively across generations. Thanks for listening!

SHOW LINKS:

Kids Ministry Calling with Jana Magruder

Flip the Script

Lifeway Research

Mccrindle Research

iGen by Dr. Jean Twenge

Generations by Dr. Jean Twenge

The Anxious Generation

Join us at ETCH NextGen Ministry Conference 2025

Connect with Lifeway Next Gen Ministry

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What’s it really like to work on your team - and what kind of culture are you creating as a leader?

In this episode, Ben and Lynley Mandrell dive into the heartbeat of every organization: staff culture. Whether you're leading a small team or serving on a large church staff, the environment you create - or tolerate - impacts everything.

Ben and Lynley walk through several guiding principles that shape healthy, high-functioning teams. They discuss the importance of direct communication, collaborative spirit, investment in community, clarity in leadership, flexibility in roles, and honoring processes that bring order to chaos. They also get honest about the real consequences of toxic culture and the hard work it takes to change course.

This episode will challenge leaders to evaluate the culture they’re shaping and offer hope that change is possible with intention, humility, and vision.

If this conversation sparked ideas or encouragement, take a moment to rate, review, and share the podcast with another ministry leader. Let’s keep building healthier teams—for the good of the Church and the glory of God.

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Leave Ben & Lynley a voice mail HERE
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Please email us your questions and feedback to president@lifeway.com or leave us a voice mail HERE

Please click THIS LINK to shop for the brand new Together Bible Study from Lifeway and Ben Mandrell.

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Are you inviting the kind of accountability into your life that leads to real spiritual growth - or are you simply going through the motions?

In this episode, Ben and Lynley Mandrell explore the timeless wisdom of John Wesley’s Holy Club questions and how they can still shape the spiritual lives of modern ministry leaders. Originally crafted for deep self-reflection and community accountability, these questions spark a conversation about the delicate balance between discipline and grace.

Ben and Lynley reflect on the value of asking ourselves tough spiritual questions - not to earn God's favor, but to become more self-aware and intentional in our walk with Christ. They address the potential dangers of drifting into legalism and the importance of tailoring spiritual practices to fit how God uniquely wired each of us. Whether you thrive in structured routines or prefer more fluid rhythms, the episode encourages leaders to pursue accountability in ways that foster authenticity, not guilt. What form of spiritual accountability challenges you to grow while still leaving space for grace?

If this conversation encouraged you, take a moment to rate, review, and share the podcast with someone who’s serious about spiritual growth. And stay with us for more conversations that speak into the soul of leadership.

SHOW LINKS:

Together Bible Study

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In a world obsessed with speed, productivity, and hustle, what is all this hurry costing us? In this episode, we slow down and take a deep breath to explore the spiritual, emotional, and relational toll of our nonstop lives. Drawing inspiration from John Mark Comer's powerful book, The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, we unpack the rhythms of rest, presence, and purpose that Jesus modeled for us—and how adopting them can transform our everyday lives.

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When was the last time you truly listened—not just to respond, but to understand?

In this episode of The Glass House, Ben and Lynley Mandrell explore one of the most undervalued yet essential skills in ministry leadership: listening. Whether you're navigating staff dynamics, leading small groups, or caring for your congregation, your ability to listen well can make or break your effectiveness as a leader.

Ben and Lynley unpack the challenges of one-sided conversations, the power of emotional intelligence, and why self-awareness is key to becoming a better communicator. They also discuss the often-avoided topic of confrontation, encouraging leaders to embrace it in a constructive, grace-filled way. Finally, they offer practical advice on how to seek honest feedback to grow in communication and relational leadership.

This conversation is a must-listen for any ministry leader who wants to build healthier teams, deeper relationships, and a more effective leadership presence through the simple—but powerful—act of listening.

If this episode resonated with you, be sure to rate, review, and share the podcast with another ministry leader in your circle. Listening well is a lifelong journey, and we’re in it together.

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Why Don't We Listen Better

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Before we can lead others effectively, we have to learn how to lead ourselves. Are you paying attention to the habits, rhythms, and decisions that shape your personal leadership?

We’re continuing our 10 & 10 Summer Series, where Ben dives into a leadership topic for 10 minutes and Lynley follows with 10 minutes of thoughtful, honest commentary from her perspective.

In this episode, Ben and Lynley explore the vital topic of self-leadership—the often-overlooked but foundational skill that impacts every area of our lives. They unpack four categories of activity that leaders typically engage in and challenge listeners to evaluate how they spend their time. The conversation encourages leaders to identify both strengths and weaknesses, making space for personal growth and greater alignment with their calling.

Together, they reflect on how to balance the demands of ministry with personal passions, and how leaning into your God-given wiring can lead to more joy and effectiveness in your work. Whether you're running on empty or ready for a refresh, this episode is packed with perspective to help you thrive—not just survive—in your leadership. If this conversation challenged or encouraged you, we’d love it if you’d rate, review, and share the podcast with your team or another ministry leader. And don’t miss the next episode in our 10 & 10 series—where leadership gets real, and so do we.

SHOW LINKS:

Four Thousand Weeks

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In this episode of The Glass House, Ben and Lynley Mandrell dive into the power of preparation—especially when it comes to shaping the environments we lead in. Whether you're welcoming a new staff member, greeting a church guest, or hosting a team event, the atmosphere you create speaks volumes.

Ben & Lynley unpack why first impressions matter and how intentional details—big or small—can leave a lasting impact. They discuss the tension between thoughtful experiences and branding strategies, pointing to the deeper calling of hospitality as a reflection of care and mission.

Listeners will walk away with practical insights on how to:

• Cultivate welcoming spaces for both visitors and teams
• Align preparation with purpose, not just performance
• Make every interaction feel personal, memorable, and mission-driven

If you’re leading in ministry, business, or your own home, this conversation will encourage you to think more intentionally about how preparation sets the tone for transformation.

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In a season of constant change, is your heart moving closer to God—or drifting further away?

In this special episode, we’re sharing a powerful message from Ben Mandrell, delivered at our annual One Lifeway gathering. With honesty and depth, Ben invites ministry leaders to reflect on something we often overlook: the subtle shifts of the heart. As everything around us changes, so do we—but are we paying attention to the direction of that change?

Drawing from the story of Cain and Abel, Ben explores how mistrust in God can quietly take root, leading us down a dangerous path if left unchecked. He asks soul-searching questions like, “Is it truly well with my soul?” and challenges listeners to consider whether their hearts are being shaped more by the pressures of ministry or the presence of God.

This message is both a caution and an invitation—to be still, to evaluate, and to redirect if needed. It’s a timely reminder for leaders at every level that our effectiveness in ministry begins with the health of our own souls.

If this episode encouraged or challenged you, take a moment to rate, review, and share the podcast with another leader in your life. Your support helps us continue creating meaningful conversations for ministry-minded people just like you.

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