Rainer on Leadership

In this follow-up episode, we examine the other side of the conversation—the rise of big-box church architecture. Often found in converted retail spaces or new multipurpose campuses, these designs emphasize...

In this episode, we explore why traditional church architecture still resonates deeply with people, even those who rarely attend church. A recent research project found that 90% of Americans want church buildings to be...

When a major donor or key financial supporter leaves a church, it can feel personal, unsettling, and even threatening to the ministry’s stability. But pastoral leadership during this moment matters immensely. On this...

God has done something remarkable at First Baptist Church in Caldwell, NJ. They have limited space and limited parking. However, through Upward Sports, the church has developed a large outreach ministry within the...

Most of the time, church hopping for convenience (better music, cooler programs, or a coffee bar) reveals more about our consumer culture than about spiritual growth. But Sam and Josh explain that there are also good...

In this episode, Sam and Ryan Burge discuss how pastors become pastors. Using data from the National Survey of Religious Leaders, the cohosts reveal that clergy often come to ministry through winding, unconventional...

One of the more painful aspects of ministry is losing church members. Sometimes these departures are for good reasons, like moving to another town or planting a church. More often than not, pastors struggle with the...

In this episode, Sam interviews Tim Byer, pastor of FAITH in Glen Burnie, MD, to hear how his congregation is making a real impact in their community. Pastor Tim shares the story of how his church began using...

In this episode, Sam interviews Michael Kelley of the Rooted Network. They discuss three essentials that every great small group leader should consistently practice. These simple but powerful habits can transform any...

The reality is that growing generosity doesn’t require a big program or complex strategy. It requires simplicity. Specifically, one simple principle: communicate, communicate, communicate, communicate. Mike Stadelmayer...

Why don’t unchurched people attend church? It’s not because they’re mad or too busy. The top reason is simple: they just don’t see the point. Indifference is the enemy of engagement. In today’s episode, Josh and Sam...

Since 2000, one of the most reliable sources of data on congregations in America has been the Faith Communities Today study, often referred to as FACT. It’s been conducted every five years, with the most recent survey...

Sam interviews Tim Cool of Smart Church Solutions to dig into a hidden but pressing crisis facing many North American churches: deferred maintenance. Too often, churches delay costly but necessary facility repairs until...

Sam and Ryan Burge take a deep dive into the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA), unpacking the denomination’s unique growth patterns, size distribution, and robust recordkeeping. They explore surprising statistics on...

Many pastors and church leaders face a common challenge: how to develop an effective communications strategy when you don't have a big team to help you. Julie Masson, church communications expert, joins Sam on the show...

Sam welcomes Amanda Jass to the Rainer on Leadership podcast. Amanda serves as the general editor for the "NLT GO Bible" and is a gifted writer, editor, illustrator, and encourager. She has a passion for creating...

There are many underappreciated people in your church. If you are in leadership, you must ensure they receive the proper recognition, encouragement, and resources. Josh and Sam discuss several groups that fly under the...

Thom and Sam welcome David Green, founder and CEO of Hobby Lobby, and Bill High, CEO of Legacy Stone, to the Rainer on Leadership podcast. Hobby Lobby employs 50,000 people at 1,000 stores in 48 states and grosses...

In this episode, Josh and Sam explore five practical ways pastors can use AI to improve their sermon prep. How should you balance being efficient with being ethical? If you’ve ever stared at a rough draft and thought...

Most unchurched people have some past connection to church—often from childhood. Our research found that 63% of the unchurched used to attend regularly. Their current indifference isn’t based on ignorance; it’s often...

It's easy to focus on what is right in front of you—the fires, the squeaky wheel, the pop-in visit. However, a pure reactive management style does not help a church move forward. Josh and Sam discuss some meetings that...

From diapers to dating, parenting never stops presenting hard questions. But today’s concern is different: Gen Z teens are experiencing a full-blown collapse in social connection. Dating is down. Friend time is down...

Doctrine, expectations, and high standards do not scare people away from church. Confusion is the main enemy. According to Church Answers Research, over 60% of unchurched people agree or strongly agree that churches are...

Most churches miss this front door, not because of a lack of awareness but because of a lack of effort. Over half of the unchurched believe church could be a great place to make friends, but nearly 60% say it’s too...

Sam talks with worship leaders Tara Banks and Nate Davis about building thriving, long-lasting worship ministries. Together, they unpack how to develop leaders who excel both on stage and in organization, create healthy...