Watermark's Church Leadership Podcast

Why is it that some organizations completely transform after a change in leadership? What is it that truly makes leaders stand out and instill confidence and trust? In today's episode, Adam and John discuss the leadership "X-Factor" and put practical terminology to this somewhat intangible concept. Ultimately, while God looks at heart, people inevitably look at outward appearance. Church Leaders Conference is Watermark Resources’ annual event designed to refresh, equip, and inspire church leaders. Whether you’re a senior pastor, small group leader, tech director, or serve in operations, CLC offers two full days of practical training, biblical encouragement, and behind-the-scenes access to real ministry in action. Through main stage sessions, over 50 breakout options, and live ministry showcases, attendees gain tools and insights to strengthen their leadership and better serve their local churches. Join us on April 27-28 or April 29-30, 2026 in Dallas, TX. Learn more and register at CLC26.com.

As 2019 comes to a close, Adam and John talk about their favorite books, tweets, documentaries, and stories of the past year. Listen in for some excellent recommendations and helpful leadership principles. This is much more than just a list of favorites. Church Leaders Conference is Watermark Resources’ annual event designed to refresh, equip, and inspire church leaders. Whether you’re a senior pastor, small group leader, tech director, or serve in operations, CLC offers two full days of practical training, biblical encouragement, and behind-the-scenes access to real ministry in action. Through main stage sessions, over 50 breakout options, and live ministry showcases, attendees gain tools and insights to strengthen their leadership and better serve their local churches. Join us on April 27-28 or April 29-30, 2026 in Dallas, TX. Learn more and register at CLC26.com.

David Penuel and Rebe Long (Watermark's Student Ministries) join John and Adam in the studio today to talk about leading teenagers. They provide 3 practical principles for being successful with youth ministry. Church Leaders Conference is Watermark Resources’ annual event designed to refresh, equip, and inspire church leaders. Whether you’re a senior pastor, small group leader, tech director, or serve in operations, CLC offers two full days of practical training, biblical encouragement, and behind-the-scenes access to real ministry in action. Through main stage sessions, over 50 breakout options, and live ministry showcases, attendees gain tools and insights to strengthen their leadership and better serve their local churches. Join us on April 27-28 or April 29-30, 2026 in Dallas, TX. Learn more and register at CLC26.com.

Beginning a new role is often an overwhelming process. But it doesn't have to be. Blake Holmes (Dallas Campus Pastor & Director of The Watermark Institute) joins Adam and John once again to talk about a leader's first 90 days. Whether you are starting a new job, were just promoted to a new role, or have been faithfully serving in the same place for decades, listen in to these 5 practical principles. Find the show notes and more at www.watermarkresources.com/clp. Church Leaders Conference is Watermark Resources’ annual event designed to refresh, equip, and inspire church leaders. Whether you’re a senior pastor, small group leader, tech director, or serve in operations, CLC offers two full days of practical training, biblical encouragement, and behind-the-scenes access to real ministry in action. Through main stage sessions, over 50 breakout options, and live ministry showcases, attendees gain tools and insights to strengthen their leadership and better serve their local churches. Join us on April 27-28 or April 29-30, 2026 in Dallas, TX. Learn more and register at CLC26.com.

In this episode, Blake Holmes (Dallas Campus Pastor & Director of The Watermark Institute) joins Adam and John to talk about leadership best practices. Each of them comes to the table with something new they are currently implementing. What about you? What are you currently trying? For show notes and more information, visit https://www.watermarkresources.com/clp/6963-leadership-best-practices-we-are-currently-trying Church Leaders Conference is Watermark Resources’ annual event designed to refresh, equip, and inspire church leaders. Whether you’re a senior pastor, small group leader, tech director, or serve in operations, CLC offers two full days of practical training, biblical encouragement, and behind-the-scenes access to real ministry in action. Through main stage sessions, over 50 breakout options, and live ministry showcases, attendees gain tools and insights to strengthen their leadership and better serve their local churches. Join us on April 27-28 or April 29-30, 2026 in Dallas, TX. Learn more and register at CLC26.com.

On today's Church Leadership Podcast, Adam and John discuss how to stay focused on the right things. Understanding the difference between "goals" and "desires" is a crucial skill for every leader. Listen in as Adam provides us with a simple and practical framework that starts with folding a piece of paper in half. For show notes and more from the Church Leadership Podcast, visit: www.watermarkresources.com/clp/6886 Church Leaders Conference is Watermark Resources’ annual event designed to refresh, equip, and inspire church leaders. Whether you’re a senior pastor, small group leader, tech director, or serve in operations, CLC offers two full days of practical training, biblical encouragement, and behind-the-scenes access to real ministry in action. Through main stage sessions, over 50 breakout options, and live ministry showcases, attendees gain tools and insights to strengthen their leadership and better serve their local churches. Join us on April 27-28 or April 29-30, 2026 in Dallas, TX. Learn more and register at CLC26.com.

John and Adam are in the studio today talking about engagement. Listen in for practical advice on communicating you are "all in" on the mission of your organization. Downloadable PDF --> https://watermarkresources.lpages.co/how-to-be-all-in Show notes --> https://www.watermarkresources.com/clp/6854-how-to-be-all-in Church Leaders Conference is Watermark Resources’ annual event designed to refresh, equip, and inspire church leaders. Whether you’re a senior pastor, small group leader, tech director, or serve in operations, CLC offers two full days of practical training, biblical encouragement, and behind-the-scenes access to real ministry in action. Through main stage sessions, over 50 breakout options, and live ministry showcases, attendees gain tools and insights to strengthen their leadership and better serve their local churches. Join us on April 27-28 or April 29-30, 2026 in Dallas, TX. Learn more and register at CLC26.com.

Todd Wagner joins Adam and John in the studio to discuss church discipline. Care and correction is absolutely core to shepherding God's people. Church leaders must be willing to step into these situations with courage and compassion. Listen in for practical insights on what church discipline should look like. Also be sure to check out the recommended resources in the show notes: watermarkresources.com/clp/6753 Church Leaders Conference is Watermark Resources’ annual event designed to refresh, equip, and inspire church leaders. Whether you’re a senior pastor, small group leader, tech director, or serve in operations, CLC offers two full days of practical training, biblical encouragement, and behind-the-scenes access to real ministry in action. Through main stage sessions, over 50 breakout options, and live ministry showcases, attendees gain tools and insights to strengthen their leadership and better serve their local churches. Join us on April 27-28 or April 29-30, 2026 in Dallas, TX. Learn more and register at CLC26.com.

In this episode, Adam and John return to the topic of leadership habits. Listen in for practical ways to improve your leadership and refine your bad habits. Find the show notes at watermarkresources.com/clp/6726 Church Leaders Conference is Watermark Resources’ annual event designed to refresh, equip, and inspire church leaders. Whether you’re a senior pastor, small group leader, tech director, or serve in operations, CLC offers two full days of practical training, biblical encouragement, and behind-the-scenes access to real ministry in action. Through main stage sessions, over 50 breakout options, and live ministry showcases, attendees gain tools and insights to strengthen their leadership and better serve their local churches. Join us on April 27-28 or April 29-30, 2026 in Dallas, TX. Learn more and register at CLC26.com.

Blake Holmes (Dallas Campus Pastor and Director of The Watermark Institute) joins Adam and John to talk about having candid conversations. People need to know the whole truth, and it is your job as a leader to communicate that to them. Listen in for best practices on what candor should look like in the life of a church leader. Show notes --> watermarkresources.com/clp/6698 Church Leaders Conference is Watermark Resources’ annual event designed to refresh, equip, and inspire church leaders. Whether you’re a senior pastor, small group leader, tech director, or serve in operations, CLC offers two full days of practical training, biblical encouragement, and behind-the-scenes access to real ministry in action. Through main stage sessions, over 50 breakout options, and live ministry showcases, attendees gain tools and insights to strengthen their leadership and better serve their local churches. Join us on April 27-28 or April 29-30, 2026 in Dallas, TX. Learn more and register at CLC26.com.