Best Lifeway Podcast Network Podcasts (2025)

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23. Teaching Kids Theology: Mary Wiley on Helping Children Know God Deeply 49:50

20h ago49:50

49:50

What if teaching theology to children wasn’t as intimidating as it sounds? What if, instead, it was one of the most natural and essential parts of shaping a child’s faith? In this episode, Mary Wiley joins us to unpack the idea that theology is simply learning about God—and that kids are not only capable of learning it, but eager to! With warmth an…

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305. Discipleship in a Noisy World with Ruth Chou Simons 35:21

2d ago35:21

35:21

In a world overflowing with noise and opinions, how can we, as disciples and leaders, cultivate wisdom, grace, and meaningful conversations? Discipleship doesn’t just happen in classrooms or sermons—it happens in the daily rhythms of our lives, in the words we speak, the beauty we notice, and the way we lead others in truth and love. In this episod…

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Why Does Everyday Faithfulness Matter? 13:08

4d ago13:08

13:08

This week on Ask the Pastor, Pastor J.D. continues his series called, “Why Does It Matter?” with the question, “Why Does Everyday Faithfulness Matter?” A glimpse inside this episode: Living a faithful life is essential, even in mundane tasks. Every believer has a role in God’s mission, regardless of their position. Motherhood and domestic roles can…

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138. Healthy Habits for Ministry Leaders with Tim Wheat 46:24

4d ago46:24

46:24

Send us a text Are you caring for your soul and body with the same intention you give to your ministry? As leaders, we often push through exhaustion and neglect our own well-being for the sake of serving others. But what if taking care of yourself is actually one of the most spiritual things you can do? In this episode, Ben Mandrell sit down with T…

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Practical Tips for Cultivating Joy with Nicole Zasowski 37:40

4d ago37:40

37:40

Today we're welcoming back therapist and author Nicole Zazowski to discuss the importance of joy in the Christian faith, the vulnerability associated with embracing joy, and practical tips for cultivating joy in daily life. Nicole shares insights from her study of six women in the Bible, emphasizing the power of celebration and the transformative i…

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Session 9 (April 27) Explore the Bible Adults 12:56

5d ago12:56

12:56

Chris Brown and Amber Vaden look at session 9 (1 Peter 4:12-19) in the Spring 2025 Explore the Bible study of 1, 2 Peter and Jude.By Lifeway Podcast Network

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22. Parenting and Grandparenting with a Generational Vision with Janie Ortlund 27:55

9d ago27:55

27:55

What does it mean to leave a lasting spiritual legacy? In a world filled with challenges and distractions, how can parents and grandparents intentionally invest in the faith of the next generation? In this powerful episode, we’re joined by Janie Ortlund, an author and passionate advocate for generational faith. Drawing from her book To the Tenth Ge…

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304. Combating Cultural Christianity: Leadership Insights from Matt Vairetta 35:47

9d ago35:47

35:47

Discipleship can be both rewarding and challenging, especially in today’s ever-changing church landscape. As leaders, we often find ourselves navigating cultural shifts, combating spiritual apathy, and seeking new ways to foster genuine community. In multi-site churches, these challenges can be even more pronounced, requiring intentional strategies…

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Why Does the Existence of Hell Matter? 11:05

11d ago11:05

11:05

This week on Ask the Pastor, Pastor J.D. continues his series called, “Why Does It Matter?” with the question, “Why Does the Existence of Hell Matter?” A glimpse inside this episode: The doctrine of hell is crucial for understanding God’s justice. Many people struggle with the concept of hell, leading to doubt. Biblical imagery of hell should be ta…

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137. Navigating Anger in Ministry with Steve and Lisa Cuss 51:44

11d ago51:44

51:44

Send us a text How do we handle anger as ministry leaders without letting it harm our relationships or leadership? Anger is a natural human emotion, but when left unchecked, it can become a significant challenge—especially in the context of ministry. In this episode, Ben and Lynley Mandrell sit down with Steve and Lisa Cuss to explore the complexit…

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The Art of Planning in Women's Ministry 46:28

11d ago46:28

46:28

Jessica Yentzer and Alicia Wong join Andrea and Elizabeth to discuss the importance of planning in women's ministry, emphasizing the need for intentionality and collaboration. You'll hear about their personal experiences serving in ministry, as well as actionable steps for planning and executing effective programs. Plus, they highlight new resource…

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Session 8 (April 20) Explore the Bible Adults 23:18

12d ago23:18

23:18

Bob Bunn and Amber Vaden look at session 8 (Mark 15:33-39; 16:1-8) in the Spring 2025 Explore the Bible study of 1, 2 Peter and Jude.By Lifeway Podcast Network

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21. Old Space, New Perspective with Lynley Mandrell 37:56

15d ago37:56

37:56

Have you ever walked into a church space and immediately felt overwhelmed? The environments we create for kids and families can make a powerful first impression, and they play a big role in how people experience church. In this episode, we welcome back Lynley Mandrell to dive into the importance of thoughtfully designed spaces in children’s ministr…

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LIVE from DLN Conference with Allan Taylor and Joseph Brasher 32:50

15d ago32:50

32:50

Joseph surrendered to full-time vocational ministry in 2010. He currently serves as the Adult Pastor at New Vision in Murfreesboro, TN. In 2022, Joseph began serving as the Director of Institutional Effectiveness at Williamson College in Franklin, TN. Joseph is involved in various networks, including Disciple Leaders Network, where he has served as…

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303. How to Measure True Discipleship: Insights with Dr. Richard Blackaby 42:05

16d ago42:05

42:05

Discipleship is at the heart of the Christian journey, but how do we truly measure its impact? In this episode Brian Daniel and Haley Malone sit down with Dr. Richard Blackaby to discuss the critical importance of making disciples as the final command of Jesus. They explore the challenges of gauging discipleship effectiveness and emphasize that gen…

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Why Does Prayer Matter? 10:22

18d ago10:22

10:22

This week on Ask the Pastor, Pastor J.D. continues his series called, “Why Does It Matter?” with the question, “Why Does Prayer Matter?” A glimpse inside this episode: Prayer is essential for experiencing the fullness of joy. Unanswered prayer can be a part of God’s better plan. Persistence in prayer is often necessary for receiving answers. Prayer…

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136. Through the Decades with Kathy Litton 35:58

18d ago35:58

35:58

Send us a text What does it look like to serve faithfully in ministry through the decades? In this special episode of our "Through the Decades" series, Lynley Mandrell sits down with Kathy Litton—a pastor’s wife who has dedicated years to ministry, experiencing the highs and lows that come with a lifetime of service. Kathy’s journey is a testament …

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Exploring Paul's Message in Titus with Courtney Doctor and Hunter Beless 44:45

18d ago44:45

44:45

Hear from Courtney Doctor and Hunter Beless as we talk through Paul's message in Titus. In our conversation, learn about the development of Courtney and Hunter's friendship, the significance of studying Titus in the context of women's ministry, and the development of their new Bible study on the book of Titus. We'll explore the themes of right beli…

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Session 7 (April 13) Explore the Bible Adults 19:12

19d ago19:12

19:12

Gia Thornburg, Dwayne McCrary, and Amber Vaden look at session 7 (1 Peter 4:1-11) in the Spring 2025 Explore the Bible study of 1, 2 Peter and Jude.By Lifeway Podcast Network

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Discovering a Different Kind of Tribe with Rick Howerton 41:00

21d ago41:00

41:00

Rick spent thirteen years as an author, trainer, coach, and consultant at LifeWay Church Resources, three years with NavPress, and five years aiding churches for the Kentucky Baptist Convention. Prior to these experiences, he served as a Campus Minister on two campuses, a Teaching and Groups Pastor at a thriving church, and planted The Bridge Churc…

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20. Making Bible Truths Stick with Joel Evrist 40:30

22d ago40:30

40:30

How do we take deep, biblical truths and make them come alive for kids in a way that sticks? In this episode, Jana Magruder tackles this topic with Joel Evrist, a passionate kids ministry leader who knows how to bring God’s Word to life through humor, real-life applications, and music. Joel shares his journey in children’s ministry and the heart be…

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302. Cultivating Deep Discipleship in a Digital Age with John Eldredge 33:54

23d ago33:54

33:54

In a world consumed by screens and distractions, how do we cultivate a deep, personal relationship with Jesus? In this episode, host Brian Daniel sits down with author and counselor John Eldredge to explore the impact of technology on our spiritual lives and what it truly means to follow Christ in today’s culture. John unpacks the essence of discip…

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135. How to Embrace Gladness in Everyday Moments with Pastor Fred Luter 44:14

25d ago44:14

44:14

Send us a text When was the last time you slowed down enough to notice a small moment of joy? As ministry leaders, it's easy to get caught up in the weight of responsibilities, constantly pouring into others while neglecting our own emotional and spiritual health. In this episode, Ben and Lynley Mandrell invite listeners to pause and reflect on the…

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Celebrating 10 Years of Seamless with Angie Smith 30:12

25d ago30:12

30:12

We’re celebrating TEN YEARS of the Seamless Bible study by Angie Smith! Seamless has sold over 700,000 units since it was released on April 1, 2015, and seeing the impact it has had on women all over the world has been incredible and humbling for all those involved. We are so grateful that God has used this study to help women understand the whole …

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Session 6 (April 6) Explore the Bible Adults 12:20

26d ago12:20

12:20

Tim Pollard and Amber Vaden look at session 6 (1 Peter 3:13-22) in the Spring 2025 Explore the Bible study of 1, 2 Peter and Jude.By Lifeway Podcast Network

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19. Teaching Scripture Through Music and Worship with Ellie Holcomb 40:14

29d ago40:14

40:14

What if the songs we sing and the stories we tell could plant seeds of faith that last a lifetime? In this episode, we’re joined by the incredibly gifted Ellie Holcomb—singer, songwriter, author, and passionate advocate for nurturing children’s hearts through music and scripture. Ellie shares her personal journey of faith and creativity, and how it…

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301. Understanding the Great De-Churching with Jim Davis 37:36

1M ago37:36

37:36

Why are so many people leaving the church—and what can we do about it? In this episode of The Group Answers Podcast, hosts Brian Daniel and Haley Malone sit down with Jim Davis, teaching pastor and co-author of The Great De-Churching, to explore one of the most significant movements happening in the church today. Together, they unpack the growing p…

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How Do I Balance Marriage and Tithing? 7:50

1M ago7:50

7:50

This week on Ask the Pastor, Pastor J.D. pauses his series called, “Why Does It Matter?” to answer a listener question about challenges of tithing when a spouse disagree. A glimpse inside this episode: Tithing is a biblical command that reflects trust in God. Communication is key when spouses disagree on financial matters. It’s important to honor e…

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134. Overcoming Guilt and Leading with Confidence with Paige Green 43:23

1M ago43:23

43:23

Send us a text As ministry leaders, how often do we carry guilt that God never intended for us to bear? In this episode, Ben and Lynley Mandrell invite listeners to reflect on their own experiences with guilt and forgiveness. Joined by Paige Greene, they dive into the complex emotions surrounding guilt—unpacking the difference between appropriate a…

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How to Bring Younger Generations into Your Women's Ministry 40:25

1M ago40:25

40:25

How do we make women's ministry feel like it's for all generations? Amanda Mejias and Corinne Allen, cohosts of the His Glory, Her Good podcast, join us to talk about how we can bridge the gap between older and younger generations to create a flourishing intergenerational women's ministry. They talk through some of the myths of women's ministry, wh…

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Session 5 (March 30) Explore the Bible Adults 19:31

1M ago19:31

19:31

Bob Bunn and Amber Vaden look at session 5 (1 Peter 3:1-12) in the Spring 2025 Explore the Bible study of 1, 2 Peter and Jude.By Lifeway Podcast Network

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18. Choosing the Right Bible for Kids of All Ages with Mary Wiley 38:34

1M ago38:34

38:34

Have you ever wondered if the Bible you’re handing to a child is the right fit for them? As kids grow and develop, so do their needs when it comes to engaging with God’s Word. In this episode, we’re joined by Mary Wiley for an eye-opening conversation about choosing age-appropriate Bibles that truly connect with kids at every stage of their spiritu…

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300. Presencing Jesus: A Transformative Approach to Discipleship with Dr. Leonard Sweet 34:15

1M ago34:15

34:15

Discipleship isn’t just about teaching others about Jesus—it’s about living in His presence and helping others do the same. In this episode, Dr. Leonard Sweet joins the conversation to explore the deeper dimensions of discipleship, emphasizing the importance of presencing Jesus rather than merely presenting Him. He unpacks how understanding our hum…

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Why Does It Matter to Live a Gospel-Centered Life? 11:27

1M ago11:27

11:27

This week on Ask the Pastor, Pastor J.D. continues his series called, “Why Does It Matter?” with a question on why it matters to live a gospel-centered life. A glimpse inside the episode: The gospel is central to every part of the Christian life. Living a gospel-centered life means returning to the gospel daily. The gospel fosters organic change ra…

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133. Breaking the Silence on Infertility: A Conversation with Doug Brown 44:26

1M ago44:26

44:26

Send us a text Infertility is a silent struggle that affects more people in our churches than we may realize. For many couples, the journey is filled with grief, unanswered questions, and a longing that can feel isolating. How can we, as ministry leaders, create spaces where these struggles are acknowledged, where both men and women feel seen, and …

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Studying the Gospel of John to Prepare Your Heart for Easter 40:59

1M ago40:59

40:59

Starting March 27, our next online Bible study is The Gospel of John by Melissa Spoelstra! So we thought it would be fun to go back and listen to our conversation with Melissa to prepare for Easter and remember the sacrifice our Savior made. In this conversation, Melissa discusses the Gospel of John’s unique aspects and provides a behind-the-scenes…

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Session 4 (March 23) Explore the Bible Adults 13:42

1M ago13:42

13:42

Tim Pollard and Amber Vaden look at session 4 (1 Peter 2:11-17,21-25) in the Spring 2025 Explore the Bible study of 1, 2 Peter and Jude.By Lifeway Podcast Network

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Living Free from Shame - Craig Walker 45:30

1M ago45:30

45:30

Craig Walker is the founder of Craig Walker Coaching, where he helps men struggling with self-doubt discover that God created them as masterpieces. After years of battling self-doubt and shame-based living, Craig discovered freedom by embracing the identity God gave him in Christ and living according to who God says he is, rather than who his doubt…

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17. Fun with Bible Skills with Emily Jennings 44:01

1M ago44:01

44:01

One of the greatest gifts we can give children is a deep love for God’s Word. But how do we help them not just hear Bible stories, but truly engage with Scripture and develop lasting Bible skills? In this episode, we’re joined by Emily Jennings to talk about the importance of biblical literacy in kids ministry. From preschoolers to preteens, every …

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299. Discipleship in Action with Elizabeth Woodson 30:52

1M ago30:52

30:52

Discipleship isn’t just about what we teach—it’s about how we live. In this episode of Group Answers Podcast, Brian Daniel welcomes Bible teacher and author Elizabeth Woodson to discuss the vital role of modeling discipleship in the church and the balance between instruction and action in discipleship. Drawing from her recent study on Galatians, El…

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Why Does It Matter? The Virgin Birth 10:31

2M ago10:31

10:31

This week on Ask the Pastor, Pastor J.D. continues his series called, “Why Does It Matter?” by diving into the significance of the virgin birth of Jesus. A glimpse inside this episode: The virgin birth is crucial to understanding Jesus’ identity. Jesus was born without a sin nature due to the virgin birth. The doctrine of the virgin birth is essent…

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132. Breaking Free from Shame: Living Authentically in Christ 31:25

2M ago31:25

31:25

Send us a text "Shame is the emotion that touches all the other emotions." - Dr. Curt Thompson What if shame is holding you back from living the full and abundant life God desires for you? In this episode, Ben and Lynley Mandrell dive into the weight of shame—its biblical roots, how it affects our relationships, and the ways it can keep us from exp…

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Living in Light of Assurance and Hope | with Bethany Broderick 38:52

2M ago38:52

38:52

Women are bombarded with seemingly positive messages—you're enough; you are perfect just the way you are; you’re worthy. But our internal voice often tells us the opposite—you will never be enough, you are broken, you are not worthy. Bethany Broderick joins us on the MARKED Podcast to talk about how Jesus and the gospel upend both kinds of messages…