How do you navigate the unique challenges of raising a family in ministry? In this episode, Pastor Jordan Carter joins his father, Pastor John Carter, for a candid discussion on the realities of growing up as a pastor’s kid and the delicate balance between family life and church leadership.

In this episode, Pastor John Carter and Dr. Brandi Ginty discuss how to have cross-cultural conversations as shepherds. In a world where it feels like everyone is shouting to be heard, how do we as pastors engage in constructive conversations over cultural issues, especially when we may not agree with the person across the table from us?

In this episode, Pastor John Carter and Dr. Brandi Ginty discuss why pastors need pastors. In this day and age, it is incredibly important that every shepherd can identify a leader in their life who serves as their Pastor - someone they are accountable to, someone they can call when they have questions, and someone they can turn to when they need help.

In this episode, Pastor John Carter talks with his wife, Pastor Lisa Carter, co-founder and senior Pastor at Abundant Life Church. Together, they discuss the realities that face shepherds who do life together in marriage and in ministry. The unique relationship that exists between shepherds and their spouses and the demands that they face can create complications and challenges that affect the balance of the marriage. Learning how to navigate these realities with openness, humility, and grace are necessary skills for maintaining both a thriving ministry and a thriving marriage.

In this episode, Pastor John Carter and Rev. Dr. Wanda Walborn discuss the cultural debate around women in ministry. As a longtime female minister and teacher, Dr. Walborn brings a unique perspective to the ongoing discussion regarding the role of women as biblical teachers, ministers, and shepherds. Her own story regarding the challenges she faced and the changes she experienced personally as she navigated this long-standing dispute are eye-opening and inspiring for all shepherds leading churches and ministries.

In this episode, Pastor John Carter and Dawn Baldwin, Lead Strategist and Founder of Mavericks, discuss the intersection between media and ministry that has so many pastors lost in translation. As shepherds, we live in an unavoidable world fueled by technology and social media. Learning how to navigate the demands and complications of that world with grace and truth is the key to ensuring that churches today are walking the talk, in person and online.

In this two-part episode, Pastor John Carter and Dr. A.R. Bernard of Christian Cultural Center in Brooklyn, NY how to address the grey matters present in culture when crafting messaging. While it is important to craft relevant and relatable messages, it is more important to ensure that what we are teaching in our pulpits is grounded in the integrity, longevity, and truth of the Bible.

In this two-part episode, Pastor John Carter and Dr. A.R. Bernard of Christian Cultural Center in Brooklyn, NY how to address the grey matters present in culture when crafting messaging. While it is important to craft relevant and relatable messages, it is more important to ensure that what we are teaching in our pulpits is grounded in the integrity, longevity, and truth of the Bible.

In this episode, Pastor John Carter and Pastor Lee Wilson discuss how to minister to the next generation with relevant, cultural, and biblical impact.

In this episode, Pastor John Carter welcomes Dr. David Ireland to discuss how shepherds can address the cultural issues affecting their congregations, especially in an election season marked by division. They explore strategies for fostering unity in diverse congregations, navigating sensitive topics, and maintaining a loving yet truthful approach to difficult issues.

In this episode, Pastor John Carter talks with renowned worship leader Leon Timbo about the nuances of worship ministry and church leadership. Leon shares his journey from a preacher's kid in Jacksonville, Florida, to becoming a worship leader, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and personal engagement in worship.

Key points include the evolution of worship music, balancing technical excellence with spiritual depth, and the necessity of building trust and clear communication between pastors and worship leaders. They discuss the role of mentorship and discipleship in fostering a thriving worship environment, and how to handle transitions within the worship team with care and sensitivity.

The conversation also touches on the inclusion of non-believers in the worship team for evangelistic purposes, provided there are clear boundaries and mentorship. Throughout, the emphasis is on creating an authentic, spiritually enriching worship experience that prioritizes God's presence and fosters deep connections within the church community.

Pastor John Carter is joined by Pastor Rick Renner a seasoned pastor with deep roots in biblical scholarship and international ministry. The conversation delves into the profound importance of a solid biblical foundation for pastors, emphasizing the transformative power of expository preaching. Pastor Rick Renner shares personal anecdotes from his ministry journey, revealing how an in-depth understanding of scripture can prevent misinterpretations and strengthen a pastor's ability to guide their congregation effectively. Additionally, the episode explores the challenges of adapting ministry methods to today's digital and literarily diverse age, ensuring that the timeless truth of the Bible remains accessible and impactful for all believers. This episode serves as a compelling dialogue on the vital role of scripture in pastoral leadership and the continuous need for spiritual and biblical diligence in ministry.

In this insightful episode, Pastor Chris Folwell discusses his journey in leadership and the transformative power of adopting different "hats" to navigate various aspects of organizational dynamics. He reflects on the impact of genuine relationships, the challenges of leadership loneliness, and the importance of theological grounding. Pastor John introduces the Shepherds Network initiative, highlighting its role in providing pastors with holistic support and resources.