Intentionally Caring For Your Soul (w/ Jason Allison) – Episode 247
The majority of pastors in America say they don’t have one close personal friend.
Practical conversations for small and midsize church leaders.
Hosted by Dale Sellers, Executive Director of 95Network and former small church pastor, the 95Podcast addresses the real challenges pastors face every week—from church health, leadership clarity, to the everyday realities of leading without large staff or large budgets. These are straightforward conversations rooted in experience, not theory.
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The majority of pastors in America say they don’t have one close personal friend.
The problem isn’t necessarily that people don’t know “how” to share their faith. The real issue is overcoming the barriers that hinder them.
God is so excited to see you use the tools He has provided for you to build. It’s not about the finished product. It’s more about the journey of building together with Him.
Releasing bitterness and unforgiveness doesn’t start a “process” to freedom. Freedom actually comes the moment we truly forgive and release someone. The pain from the torment is gone!
The goal of this specific retreat is to help folks learn how to “struggle well” which is the outcome of post-traumatic growth.
It’s imperative for us to find one or two trusted friends to help us walk through the valley of despair and discouragement. Without them, it’s almost impossible to regain ministry traction.
While some folks in the church can be the source of your pain, Karl and Shelley received unexpected healing and restoration from the people in their new congregation. This blessing released them into where they are today as they minister to leaders and their spouses all over the world.
Succession plans don’t just happen. It takes a long and thorough process to effectively implement a successful transition from one leader to the next.
We have a solid understanding today more than ever that the church is not a building. The church is a group of people committed to serving Jesus and each other even through the most difficult of situations.
Changes in employee compensation laws are not something churches should take lightly. It is vital that pastors and church administrators understand how this new law could leave their ministries vulnerable.
This whole thing of discipleship happens when we engage where people are living life everyday.
Many “successful” ministry leaders discover too late in life that they missed out on the true success that comes from having great family relationships. Far too many build “great” ministry’s but loose their families.
Fault leads to shame; responsibility leads to freedom. Responsibility shows you what you can actually change and release what you cannot control.
Discernment stays human. AI can help refine communication, brainstorm, or summarize—but leaders must verify and own what’s shared.
Connection starts with God first. If leaders are not connected to God, they will not lead people into meaningful connection.
Kids ministry deserves top-tier support. If the mission includes evangelism and disciple-making, the next generation should be resourced accordingly.
Most pastors aren’t refusing rest—they’re trapped by systems. Without a plan (and a bench), even a short break can feel impossible.
Preparation beats panic. Healthy leaders build a plan before the crisis—then execute calmly when disruption hits.
Equipping can’t be reduced to a weekly performance; it requires presence, relationship, modeling, and shared life.
Prayer isn’t the warm-up—it’s the engine. Ministry strength doesn’t come from personal drive; it comes from dependence on Jesus and consistent prayer.
“If you got a pulse, he’s got a purpose for you.” Retirement isn’t the end of ministry; it’s a new season with fresh opportunities to serve, mentor, and impact the kingdom.
Self-awareness protects leaders from self-deception. Honest feedback is a guardrail for character and culture.
Build discipleship around practice, not just information. People grow through doing, feedback, and repetition in relationships.