The Church Revitalization Podcast
Each week, The Malphurs Group team tackles important, actionable topics to help your church succeed in revitalization and leadership. We want to equip your church break through barriers and maximize your impact.
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How to Know if Your Church Has Expired Vision
05/13/2026
How to Know if Your Church Has Expired Vision
Is your church's vision still guiding decisions and inspiring people, or has it quietly expired without anyone noticing? In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu walk through three clear signs that a church's vision has gone stale, and they offer practical next steps for auditing and renewing it before it does more damage. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are the co-hosts of the Church Revitalization Podcast and consultants with the Malphurs Group, a ministry dedicated to helping churches develop healthy, strategic frameworks for growth and renewal. Each week they bring practical, field-tested insight to pastors and church leaders who are serious about moving their congregations forward. [4:03] Why overly broad vision statements are a warning sign right from the start [7:48] Sign 1: Nobody in your church can actually explain the vision [9:57] Sign 2: The vision is no longer driving real ministry decisions [14:46] Sign 3: The vision has already been fully accomplished or fully abandoned [17:22] Practical next steps: How to audit and renew your church's vision this week Free 7-Day Trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/340 Follow the Malphurs Group: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup https://instagram.com/malphursgroup https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup https://x.com/malphursgroup
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Why Churches Stop Growing at Predictable Barriers
05/06/2026
Why Churches Stop Growing at Predictable Barriers
Every growing church eventually hits a wall, and in this episode, Scott and A.J. walk through three predictable barriers that slow or stall church growth. These are not problems that cause growth to begin in the first place, but rather real, pragmatic obstacles that show up when a healthy church is already moving in the right direction and needs to clear the path ahead. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are lead consultants at the Malphurs Group, a church consulting organization focused on helping churches become healthier and more effective in their mission. Each week on the Church Revitalization Podcast, they bring practical insight drawn from years of working directly with pastors and church leaders across the country. Their approach is grounded, honest, and always pointed toward real-world application. [5:59] Barrier 1: The Pastor as the Bottleneck -- when the pastor's capacity for personal relationships limits how far the church can grow [11:17] Barrier 2: The Family Church Identity Problem -- when a close-knit congregation unintentionally becomes unwelcoming to newcomers [15:52] The Cost of an Insular Culture -- how new people quietly leave when they cannot break into existing relational circles [17:17] Barrier 3: The Pastor's Self-Perception -- when a pastor's internal identity keeps him from leading the church to its next level [22:10] The Value of Outside Help -- why bringing in an outside perspective can help pastors and churches see and break through these barriers Free 7-Day Trial: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/339 Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup X: https://x.com/malphursgroup
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Three Signs of Low Emotional Intelligence in Pastors
04/29/2026
Three Signs of Low Emotional Intelligence in Pastors
In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott and A.J. walk through three practical signs that a leader may be operating with low emotional intelligence. From confusing anger with authority to struggling to read a room to reacting instead of responding, the conversation is honest, self-aware, and grounded in real pastoral experience. The goal is not to point fingers at others but to help leaders identify areas where they can grow. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church consultants with the Malphurs Group, a ministry dedicated to helping churches thrive through practical leadership and strategic revitalization. Each week they bring that same hands-on, field-tested perspective to the Church Revitalization Podcast, making complex leadership topics accessible and actionable for pastors and church leaders at every stage. [4:45] Sign 1: You Confuse Anger With Authority [10:50] Sign 2: You Struggle to Read the Room [14:33] Sign 3: You React Instead of Respond [19:08] How Leaders Can Actually Improve Their EQ [21:07] Closing Encouragement: You Can Grow in This Free 7-Day Trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/338 Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup X: https://x.com/malphursgroup
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Three Things Growing Churches Do With Their Facilities That Declining Churches Don't
04/22/2026
Three Things Growing Churches Do With Their Facilities That Declining Churches Don't
Growing churches and declining churches handle their facilities very differently — and it often has nothing to do with budget or building size. In this episode, Scott and A.J. break down three practical philosophies that healthy, growing churches apply to their physical spaces that plateaued or declining churches tend to overlook. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are the co-hosts of the Church Revitalization Podcast, produced by the Malphurs Group, a church consulting organization dedicated to helping churches grow healthy and reach their communities. Each week, Scott and A.J. bring practical, actionable insights for pastors and church leaders navigating the challenges of revitalization and growth. [3:06] Point 1: Treating Your Facility as a First Impression Tool, Not Just a Container for Sunday Services [7:43] Point 2: How Growing Churches Maximize Their Space Beyond Sunday Morning [12:54] Point 3: Letting Your Space Reflect Your Priorities, Not Your History [17:10] Practical Example: Auditing Outdated Spaces and What They Communicate to New Guests [19:31] How to Conduct a Facility Audit and Take Action on What You Find Free 7-Day Trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/337 Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup X: https://x.com/malphursgroup
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Healthy Churches Have Healthy Pastors
04/15/2026
Healthy Churches Have Healthy Pastors
Pastor failures -- moral, emotional, and relational -- are rarely just personal crises. Too often, the church itself has inadvertently created the conditions for them: isolated leaders, missing accountability, and no margin for rest. In this episode, Scott and A.J. make the case that keeping a pastor healthy is a team responsibility, and walk through three practical systems any church can put in place before a problem develops. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are the hosts of the Church Revitalization Podcast, produced by The Malphurs Group -- a church health and strategic planning consultancy. Scott and A.J. work with churches across the country to help leaders build healthy structures, cultures, and teams that can sustain long-term growth and ministry impact. In this episode: [00:00] Why pastor health is everybody's responsibility -- and the danger of only thinking about it reactively [04:46] The isolation problem: why the pastoral role structurally separates leaders from genuine community, and what healthy churches do about it [17:03] Accountability that protects, not just prosecutes: proactive structures including technology monitoring, honest check-ins, and mutual accountability among elders [28:17] Rest as a leadership strategy: why mandatory, guilt-free rest is essential for long-term pastoral health -- and how boards can protect it [39:18] Resources for building a healthier board culture at your church Start your free 7-day trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Show notes and resources for this episode: https://malphursgroup.com/336 Connect with The Malphurs Group on social media: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup https://instagram.com/malphursgroup https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup https://x.com/malphursgroup
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Stop the Summer Slump Before It Starts
04/08/2026
Stop the Summer Slump Before It Starts
Every church feels it: attendance dips, energy fades, and ministry momentum stalls somewhere between Memorial Day and Labor Day. But the summer slump isn't inevitable. It's the result of low expectations and no plan. In this episode, Scott and A.J. make the case that April is exactly the right time to get ahead of summer, and they give you three practical categories of action to help your church stay healthy and even grow through the slower months. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are the hosts of the Church Revitalization Podcast, produced by The Malphurs Group, a church health and strategic planning consultancy with decades of experience helping churches of all sizes move toward health and missional effectiveness. Each week, they bring practical, actionable conversations to help church leaders lead well. In this episode: [04:00] Why the "everybody's gone" mindset is a self-fulfilling prophecy and how to break the cycle [07:00] Point 1: Reset your expectations. Summer is a less-cluttered season, not a lost one [09:44] Point 2: Make a plan now. Three categories to act on before summer arrives: outreach, discipleship, and planning [18:43] Point 3: Protect your people's momentum. Practical ways to stay connected so the fall re-launch isn't starting from zero [20:30] The simple challenge to give your small group leaders right now Resources & Links: Free 7-Day Trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit: Episode article & resources: Follow The Malphurs Group: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: X:
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The Missing Link Between Your Sermon and Your Worship Service
04/01/2026
The Missing Link Between Your Sermon and Your Worship Service
Most churches run their preaching ministry and worship ministry on parallel tracks that never really meet. The result is a Sunday service that feels more like a playlist followed by a sermon than an integrated, unified experience. In this episode, Scott and A.J. explore the practical steps any church can take — regardless of size or style — to build real collaboration between the pastor and the worship leader so that Sunday morning becomes a cohesive whole. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church health consultants with The Malphurs Group and co-hosts of the Church Revitalization Podcast. Each week they tackle practical, actionable topics to help church leaders lead thriving, healthy churches. In this episode: [00:05:45] Build a Shared Vision for Sunday — Why a preaching calendar is the foundation of worship planning, and how to give your worship leader what they need early enough to actually use it. [00:10:28] Clarify Who Owns What — How to define healthy ownership between the preaching pastor and the worship leader — and why unclear roles create unnecessary tension on Sunday morning. [00:15:02] Build in a Feedback Rhythm — Why a short debrief after (or between) services is one of the most underutilized tools in church ministry, and how to make it a regular, low-pressure habit. [00:19:08] Bonus: Stop Rehearsing Right Before Church Starts — A practical word on worship team rehearsal timing and why Sunday morning sound check is not the time to figure out if a song is ready. Resources & Links: 🛠️ Healthy Churches Toolkit — Your all-in-one leadership operating system for church health and vision. Start your free 7-day trial: 📖 Full show notes & related articles: 📲 Follow The Malphurs Group: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: X:
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3 Reasons Your Church Isn't Keeping Its Guests
03/25/2026
3 Reasons Your Church Isn't Keeping Its Guests
You've got guests showing up on Sunday — but they're not sticking around. In this episode, Scott and A.J. break down three common, fixable reasons your guest assimilation process is losing people, and what you can do to turn things around without a massive budget overhaul. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are the hosts of the Church Revitalization Podcast, part of The Malphurs Group — a church health and strategic planning consultancy that has helped hundreds of churches across the country get healthy and grow. Each week they bring practical, actionable insights to help church leaders move their congregations forward. [00:00:00] Introduction — Why guests aren't returning [00:04:19] Sponsor — TapConnect & Healthy Churches Toolkit [00:07:20] Reason #1: You don't have a clear next step for guests [00:16:39] Reason #2: Your next step asks too much, too soon [00:26:03] Reason #3: Your follow-up system breaks down under pressure [00:33:10] Closing thoughts and challenge Resources & Links Free 7-Day Trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Show notes & article: https://malphursgroup.com/333 TapConnect (use code TMG10 for 10% off): https://tapconnect.church Follow Us Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: X:
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Three Budget Areas Your Church is Underfunding
03/18/2026
Three Budget Areas Your Church is Underfunding
Most church budget conversations focus on what to cut. But what if the real problem is what you're not funding? In this episode, Scott and A.J. make the case that churches are dangerously underfunding three key areas — and the cost shows up in plateaus, burnout, and declining impact long before leaders realize why. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are the hosts of the Church Revitalization Podcast and consultants with The Malphurs Group, a church health and strategic planning organization helping churches across the country move from plateau and decline toward fruitful, sustainable ministry. In this episode: [00:02:17] — Leadership Development: Why your biggest budget line item (personnel) is undermined when you invest nothing in developing those people [00:07:22] — Guest Experience & First Impressions: Signage, facilities, and follow-up systems — the areas churches know need work but never budget for [00:16:03] — Strategic Planning & Church Health: Why a one-time retreat with ideas on a whiteboard isn't a plan — and what it actually costs you not to plan [00:21:25] — Recap & Challenge: Three categories that are dangerously underfunded in most churches, and a practical challenge for each Resources & Links: 🔗 Free 7-Day Trial — 📖 Full article — 💳 TapConnect (save 10% with code TMG10) — 📘 Facebook — 📸 Instagram — ▶️ YouTube — 🐦 X —
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How to Overcome the "We've Always Done It This Way" Objection
03/11/2026
How to Overcome the "We've Always Done It This Way" Objection
"We've always done it this way." It's the most common objection church leaders face when trying to move their congregation forward — and one of the most frustrating. In this episode, Scott and A.J. break down what this phrase is actually communicating, who tends to say it and why, and walk through a practical three-step framework for responding to it without blowing up the unity of your church. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are consultants with The Malphurs Group, a church health and revitalization ministry. Each week on the Church Revitalization Podcast they bring practical, field-tested insights to help pastors and church leaders lead healthier, more effective churches. [00:06:34] What is the "We've Always Done It This Way" objection really communicating? Fear of loss, distrust of leadership, and absence of vision [00:12:13] Who says it? Understanding three types of objectors: the Loyal Traditionalist, the Power Protector, and the Chronic Objector [00:21:10] Step 1 — Validate, don't capitulate: honor the past without being held hostage to it [00:23:09] Step 2 — Reframe around mission, not preference: connect change to the Great Commission, not just strategy [00:26:01] Step 3 — Create small, early wins: build momentum through incremental change rather than trying to overhaul everything at once Resources & Links Free 7-Day Trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit: TapConnect — Digital connect cards for your church (use code TMG10 for 10% off): Episode article: Follow The Malphurs Group: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: X: Related Episodes:
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Why Your Small Groups Aren’t Actually Making Disciples
03/04/2026
Why Your Small Groups Aren’t Actually Making Disciples
Small groups are one of the most common ministries in the church — but are they actually producing disciples? In this episode, Scott and A.J. make the case that many churches have confused participation with transformation. Just because people show up to a group doesn't mean discipleship is happening. In fact, your small groups ministry might be the most dangerous ministry in your church — because you think discipleship is happening when it isn't. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are consultants with The Malphurs Group, helping churches develop practical strategies for revitalization, discipleship, and leadership. Each week on the Church Revitalization Podcast, they tackle actionable topics to help your church thrive. In this episode: [00:04:03] The "participation trap" — why getting people into groups isn't the same as making disciples [00:09:33] What Acts 2:41-47 tells us about what small groups should actually accomplish [00:14:11] The three things most small groups are missing: clear outcomes, accountability, and connection to the discipleship pathway [00:17:32] How to define your discipleship target and design groups around it [00:19:49] Why small group leaders need a framework, not just curriculum — and why they don't need to be Bible teachers Resources mentioned: 🛠️ Healthy Churches Toolkit (Small Groups Ministry Training by Build Groups): 📖 Full article & show notes: 🔌 TapConnect (church attendance & guest connection tool): — use code TMG10 for 10% off Connect with us:
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Warning Signs of Volunteer Burnout & How to Prevent Them
02/25/2026
Warning Signs of Volunteer Burnout & How to Prevent Them
Most churches don't lose volunteers to a dramatic exit — they lose them to a slow fade. In this episode, Scott Ball breaks down the three warning signs of volunteer burnout that leaders often miss until it's too late, and then shares three practical systems you can build right now to prevent burnout before it derails your ministry. Scott Ball is a church consultant with The Malphurs Group and co-host of the Church Revitalization Podcast. Each week, Scott and A.J. Mathieu tackle practical, actionable topics to help churches thrive. In this episode: [00:04:11] Why volunteer burnout is a barrier to recruiting new volunteers [00:04:56] Warning Sign #1 — The volunteer who's gone quiet [00:07:23] Warning Sign #2 — Scope creep without conversation [00:12:45] Warning Sign #3 — Withdrawing from community, not just ministry [00:17:31] Three systems to prevent burnout: role clarity, coaching cadence, and built-in off-ramps Resources & Links: 🔗 Free 7-Day Trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit (includes volunteer position description samples and leadership pipeline tools): healthychurchestoolkit.com 🔗 Full article and resources for this episode: malphursgroup.com/329 🔗 Sponsor: TapConnect — track guests and attendance with a simple tap system. Use code TMG10 to save 10% off any plan: tapconnect.church 📱 Follow The Malphurs Group: Facebook: facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: youtube.com/themalphursgroup X: x.com/malphursgroup
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Building a Church That Outlasts Your Leadership
02/18/2026
Building a Church That Outlasts Your Leadership
What can medieval cathedral builders teach us about church leadership? Notre Dame took over 200 years to build — surviving wars, plagues, and leadership transitions — yet many modern churches can't survive a single pastoral transition. In this episode, Scott and A.J. explore why so many churches collapse when a long-tenured pastor leaves, and what you can do to build something that lasts far beyond your tenure. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church consultants and the hosts of the Church Revitalization Podcast, brought to you by the Malphurs Group. Each week they tackle practical, actionable topics to help church leaders and their churches thrive. In this episode: [00:00] The Notre Dame inspiration: what 200-year building projects teach us about church leadership [06:31] The problem: why your church won't survive your pastorate [07:47] Lesson 1: Mission over personality — making your church's identity transferable [10:10] Lesson 2: Distribute the knowledge — eliminating leadership bottlenecks [19:19] Lesson 3: Think generationally — laying foundations for the future [23:05] Action steps: audit bottlenecks, document everything, and test your systems 🔗 Links & Resources: Read the article: malphursgroup.com/328 Free 7-day trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit: healthychurchestoolkit.com Support our global ministry: malphursgroup.com/donate Check out TapConnect: tapconnect.church (use code TMG10 for 10% off) Connect with us: Facebook: facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: youtube.com/themalphursgroup X: x.com/malphursgroup
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The Hidden Cost of 'Just One More Ministry'
02/11/2026
The Hidden Cost of 'Just One More Ministry'
Every church leader faces the dilemma: someone brings you an exciting new ministry idea, and it's easier to say yes than to disappoint them. But continuously adding programs creates calendar clutter, burns out volunteers, drains resources, and confuses your congregation about what actually matters. In this episode, we equip you with a practical three-question framework to discern when to say yes to new ministry ideas—and how to gracefully say no when needed. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church consultants with The Malphurs Group, where they help churches navigate decline, leadership challenges, and organizational health. Through their podcast and consulting work, they challenge conventional church leadership thinking while providing immediately implementable strategies that prioritize kingdom work over member comfort. In This Episode: [00:00] The hidden cost of saying yes to every ministry idea and why calendar clutter is killing your church [08:18] Three filtering questions to evaluate new ministry proposals: mission alignment, existing ministry overlap, and resource optimization [15:07] Walking through real examples: when to say yes, when to replace, and when to pilot-test new ideas [18:41] How to say no gracefully: affirm the heart, redirect the passion, and offer a future path [23:04] Why saying no to good things protects your ability to say yes to the best things Links & Resources: Read the full article: malphursgroup.com/327 Try the Healthy Churches Toolkit free for 7 days: healthychurchestoolkit.com Learn more about TapConnect Use Code TMG10 to save 10%: tapconnect.church Connect with us on Facebook: facebook.com/malphursgroup Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/malphursgroup Subscribe on YouTube: youtube.com/themalphursgroup Follow us on X: x.com/malphursgroup
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Why Churches Struggle to Keep Young Adults (And How to Fix It)
02/04/2026
Why Churches Struggle to Keep Young Adults (And How to Fix It)
Churches across America are losing 60-80% of young adults between ages 18-29, and most leaders are trying all the wrong fixes. It's not about being cooler, having better coffee, or upgrading your lights. In this episode, we break down the two real reasons young adults leave your church and give you three actionable fixes you can implement this month to turn things around. In This Episode: [02:00] Why "being cooler" won't solve your young adult problem [04:43] Reason #1: You're not giving them real responsibility or leadership opportunities [09:00] Reason #2: You're not providing authentic community—just programs [15:00] How to build natural connection points instead of more structured groups [21:08] The three questions to ask young adults in your church this week Resources & Links: 📖 Read the full article: 🛠️ Try the Healthy Churches Toolkit FREE for 7 days: 🌐 Connect with The Malphurs Group: Follow us on social media: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: X/Twitter: -- Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church consultants with The Malphurs Group, helping church leaders navigate revitalization, strategic planning, and building healthy ministry systems. Together, they deliver practical, no-nonsense advice to help your church thrive.
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Three Signs Your Discipleship Pathway Has Become a Maze
01/28/2026
Three Signs Your Discipleship Pathway Has Become a Maze
Your church has groups, classes, Bible studies, and a beautiful buffet of programs—but your people aren't growing spiritually. You're seeing staff burnout, volunteer shortages, and 40% of your congregation still can't quote the Great Commission. The problem isn't lack of activity; it's that you've created a maze of programs instead of a clear discipleship pathway. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are your hosts for The Church Revitalization Podcast, a weekly show from The Malphurs Group dedicated to helping church leaders develop practical strategies for church health and growth. Together they bring decades of consulting experience working with churches across the country to implement effective discipleship systems. In this episode, Scott and A.J. diagnose three critical signs your church has a maze instead of a map. [2:13] Sign #1: Menu vs. Map [6:28] Sign #2: Members Can't Name Their Next Step [13:08] Sign #3: Measuring Programs, Not Progress The episode concludes with practical steps to shift from program-oriented thinking to process-oriented discipleship. Ready to simplify and strengthen your church's discipleship pathway? Get a 7-day free trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit at healthychurchestoolkit.com, where you'll find Strategic Envisioning training and tools to help you build a clear discipleship process. Connect with a certified Malphurs Group guide at malphursgroup.com to partner with your church in making disciples who make disciples. Follow us on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: youtube.com/themalphursgroup X: x.com/malphursgroup Read the full show notes at malphursgroup.com/325
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How to Lead When Your Church Board is Divided
01/21/2026
How to Lead When Your Church Board is Divided
Board meetings going nowhere? Two members dug in on opposite sides? Today we tackle one of the most common—and most damaging—situations church leaders face: how to actually lead when your board is divided. Learn to diagnose the real issue, make decisions without unanimity, and prevent division through clear authority structures. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church consultants with The Malphurs Group, specializing in helping churches navigate leadership challenges, strategic planning, and revitalization. Through practical frameworks and real-world experience, they equip pastors and church leaders with actionable solutions for building healthy, thriving congregations. In This Episode: [1:11] Diagnose the Division: Understanding directional vs. relational conflict [8:45] Lead to a Decision: Why unity doesn't mean unanimity [15:42] Prevent Division by Clarifying Authority: Setting boundaries before conflict [21:40] Next Steps: Resources for healthy board leadership Links & Resources: 📖 Read the full article: malphursgroup.com/324 🎁 🎓Building a Biblical Board Course available in the Healthy Churches Toolkit Free 7-Day Trial: healthychurchestoolkit.com 📱 Connect with us on Facebook: facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: youtube.com/themalphursgroup X/Twitter: x.com/malphursgroup
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Four Communication Breakdowns That Kill Church Momentum
01/14/2026
Four Communication Breakdowns That Kill Church Momentum
Clear communication is essential for everything from teaching God's word to casting vision, yet many churches struggle with four common breakdowns that create confusion and stall momentum. In this episode, Scott and A.J. walk through the most frequent communication mistakes churches make—from drowning their congregation in noise to contradicting messages from leadership—and provide practical strategies to communicate more effectively. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church consultants with The Malphurs Group, helping churches navigate revitalization, strategic planning, and leadership development. With decades of combined experience working with churches across the country, they bring practical, actionable insights to help church leaders build healthier, more effective ministries. In This Episode: [2:06] Over Communicating Everything [6:15] Under Communicating the Important Stuff [11:30] Leadership Contradicting One Another [19:41] Wrong Medium for the Message Resources & Links: Read the full article at https://malphursgroup.com/323 Try the Healthy Churches Toolkit free for 7 days: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Contact The Malphurs Group: Visit our website: malphursgroup.com Follow us on social media: Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup X (Twitter): https://x.com/malphursgroup
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Why Your Church's Values Don't Match Your Budget (And What to Do About It)
01/07/2026
Why Your Church's Values Don't Match Your Budget (And What to Do About It)
Your budget is the most honest document in your church. While mission statements and value declarations tell you what you aspire to be, your budget reveals what you actually prioritize and fund. In this episode, Scott and A.J. help church leaders audit their budgets to identify misalignment between stated values and actual spending, then provide a practical framework for making strategic shifts over time without creating financial chaos. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu co-host the Church Revitalization Podcast, helping evangelical church leaders navigate the practical challenges of ministry. Both serve as consultants with the Malphurs Group, working with churches across the country on strategic planning, leadership development, and organizational health. Their conversational approach combines real-world consulting experience with actionable frameworks that church leaders can implement immediately. IN THIS EPISODE: [00:02:51] Budget Reveals the Truth [00:11:37] Conducting a Values-Based Budget Audit - [00:24:14] The Four Budget Buckets Framework [00:32:56] The Missions vs. Ministry Balance [00:37:39] Taking the Long View on Change RESOURCES & LINKS: Free 7-Day Trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit (with new strategic planning & leadership pipeline features): healthychurchestoolkit.com Full Episode Article: malphursgroup.com/322 Connect with The Malphurs Group: Website: malphursgroup.com Facebook: facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: youtube.com/themalphursgroup X (Twitter): x.com/malphursgroup Let the Malphurs Group help your church with budget alignment, strategic planning, and maximizing your ministry effectiveness. Visit malphursgroup.com to learn more about our consulting services and resources.
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Church Consultants React to Social Media Christmas Clips
12/17/2025
Church Consultants React to Social Media Christmas Clips
In this special Christmas episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu react in real time to a series of viral Christmas-themed church and Christian videos circulating online. From funny and lighthearted moments to intense theological takes and over-the-top productions, this episode explores how Christians communicate faith during the Christmas season—and how those messages are received by both believers and the watching world. Scott Ball is joined by co-host and fellow church consultant A.J. Mathieu as they offer candid, unscripted reactions rooted in decades of ministry experience. Together, they discuss pastoral wisdom, cultural engagement, outreach effectiveness, and where well-intended Christmas expressions may help—or hurt—the church’s witness. Chapters [00:00] Introduction [02:15] Pastors, humor, and calling out fruitcake from the pulpit [04:41] “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” and why punctuation matters in theology [07:45] Is Christmas pagan? Responding to extreme anti-Christmas arguments [12:44] Cross-shaped Christmas trees and symbolic overcorrections [18:08] “Christmas at the Movies” sermon series—helpful or overdone? [24:20] Mega-church Christmas productions, ticket prices, and public perception [34:12] A deeper look at A Christmas Carol and the dangers of moral rigidity Links & Resources Healthy Churches Toolkit - https://healthychurchestoolkit.com The Malphurs Group - https://malphursgroup.com Facebook - https://facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram - https://instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube - https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup X (Twitter) - https://x.com/malphursgroup
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From Burnout to Best Fit: How to Transition Over-Committed Volunteers
12/10/2025
From Burnout to Best Fit: How to Transition Over-Committed Volunteers
Many churches struggle with volunteers who are spread too thin—serving in three, four, or even five roles. In this episode, we explore why narrowing volunteer focus actually increases effectiveness and joy in serving, and how to transition your church to a healthier, more sustainable volunteer culture. Hosted by Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu of The Malphurs Group, this conversation walks you through practical steps any church can take. If you’re new to the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott and A.J. bring decades of combined church consulting experience, helping churches grow healthier through strategy, leadership, and intentional systems. In this episode: [00:01] Setting the stage: volunteers doing too much and the 80/20 problem [02:18] Why people fear reducing volunteer roles—and why it actually works [03:20] Step 1: Creating a realistic, intentional timeline for change [07:20] Step 2: Helping volunteers find their best-fit roles through Divine Design [12:20] Step 3: Engaging volunteers in recruiting their successors [15:27] Step 4: Why a Leadership Pipeline is essential to prevent the problem from returning [17:41] “Slow is smooth, smooth is fast” applied to volunteer transition [18:47] Building systems instead of just filling slots Links & Resources: Healthy Churches Toolkit → https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Full episode article → https://malphursgroup.com/320 Website → https://malphursgroup.com Facebook → https://facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram → https://instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube → https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup X (Twitter) → https://x.com/malphursgroup
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5 Reasons Church Revitalization Efforts Fail
12/03/2025
5 Reasons Church Revitalization Efforts Fail
In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu discuss five key reasons why revitalization efforts in churches often fail. They emphasize the importance of distinguishing between activity and genuine progress, recognizing demographic changes in the community, establishing accountability structures, navigating decision-making challenges, and avoiding the consensus trap that can hinder momentum. The conversation highlights practical strategies for churches to implement effective revitalization processes and the value of having experienced guides to support them. Chapters [00:00] Understanding Revitalization Failures [07:01] Demographic Mismatch in Revitalization [12:12] Importance of Accountability in Implementation [15:42] Decision-Making Challenges in Revitalization [19:36] Navigating the Consensus Trap Get a free 7-day trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit at healthychurchestoolkit.com Follow us online: malphursgroup.com facebook.com/malphursgroup x.com/malphursgroup instagram.com/malphursgroup youtube.com/themalphursgroup
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Scott & A.J. Debate the Best Christmas Set List
11/26/2025
Scott & A.J. Debate the Best Christmas Set List
This week, Scott and AJ take a fun holiday detour and build the ultimate Christmas worship setlist—draft style. They debate classics, song arrangements, emotional picks, and what actually serves a congregation well during Advent. Equal parts practical and playful, this episode will get you thinking about your Christmas services. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu co-host The Church Revitalization Podcast and lead The Malphurs Group, helping churches experience renewed health and grow with confidence. If this is your first time listening, welcome—expect practical, actionable conversations rooted in real ministry experience. In this episode (timestamps): 00:41 — Why Christmas music matters in worship planning 05:05 — The “draft rules” and first-round song selections 13:08 — Debating arrangements, modern twists, and nostalgia 18:00 — Vulnerable stories behind certain song choices 25:28 — Final setlists, service flow, and surprising endings LINKS Healthy Churches Toolkit — https://healthychurchestoolkit.com The Malphurs Group — https://malphursgroup.com Facebook — https://facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram — https://instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube — https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup X (Twitter) — https://x.com/malphursgroup
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Three Church Membership Mistakes
11/19/2025
Three Church Membership Mistakes
Many churches struggle to maintain healthy membership systems. In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu unpack the three most common membership pathway mistakes churches make—and how to fix them. Whether your process is too long, too short, or simply unclear, this episode will help you build a pathway that’s meaningful, strategic, and effective. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are the co-hosts of the Church Revitalization Podcast and leaders at The Malphurs Group, helping churches grow healthier through strategic planning, leadership development, and the Healthy Churches Toolkit. In this episode, you’ll hear: [00:06:00] Why “right-sizing” your membership process matters [00:12:00] How to communicate the “why” behind church membership [00:16:00] Why membership should be the beginning—not the end—of discipleship [00:22:00] How to measure engagement and care for members well [00:25:00] Practical tips for evaluating and improving your membership system Links & Resources Mentioned: Full article: Learn more: Visit The Malphurs Group: Follow us on social media:
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Equipping Parents to Have Hard Conversations with Teens
11/11/2025
Equipping Parents to Have Hard Conversations with Teens
Parenting in today’s world can feel overwhelming—especially when it comes to tackling the tough topics. In this episode, Scott Ball sits down with youth pastor and author Mark Shoemaker to talk about his new book What to Say and How to Say It to Your Teen, co-written with his father, Tim Shoemaker. Together, they discuss how parents can approach difficult conversations with wisdom, grace, and confidence. Scott Ball is the Vice President of The Malphurs Group and co-host of the Church Revitalization Podcast, helping churches and leaders develop clarity, structure, and health. Mark Shoemaker is a veteran youth pastor and author, passionate about equipping parents to disciple their kids and foster meaningful communication in the home. In this episode, you’ll hear: [00:02:00] The heart behind What to Say and How to Say It to Your Teen [00:05:00] Why timing and emotional awareness matter in parenting conversations [00:08:00] How to prepare your heart and approach for sensitive topics [00:14:00] How church leaders and youth pastors can partner with parents [00:21:00] Practical ideas for creating space for meaningful talks with your kids Links & Resources Mentioned: Get the book: Explore more resources: Follow The Malphurs Group on social media:
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Making the Most of Your Staff Meetings
11/05/2025
Making the Most of Your Staff Meetings
Are your staff meetings dominated by information gathering and idle chit-chat instead of strategic decision-making? In this episode, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu share practical strategies to transform your weekly team time from wasted hours into productive, vision-focused collaboration that actually moves your ministry forward. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are co-hosts of the Church Revitalization Podcast and consultants with the Malphurs Group, where they help churches develop healthy systems and strategic clarity. With decades of combined experience in church leadership, they bring practical, field-tested insights to help your church thrive. In This Episode: [00:00] Why most churches waste their staff meeting time and how to fix it [03:49] Gather information before the meeting—don't wing it or rely on repetitive updates [07:09] Prioritize collaborative decision-making over information reporting [09:04] Avoid one-on-one conversations that should happen offline [11:29] Keep vision, mission, and strategy at the center of every meeting [13:25] End with clarity: tasks, due dates, deliverables, and accountability Resources & Links: Healthy Churches Toolkit: Full Article for This Episode: Website: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: X/Twitter: https://x.com/malphursgroup
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Case Study: Growing a Small Church in a Big City
10/29/2025
Case Study: Growing a Small Church in a Big City
How can a small church in a large metro area find a path toward growth? In this case study episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu walk through the real-life scenario of a 35-person congregation with an older membership, a new part-time pastor, and big questions about what comes next. Instead of offering cookie-cutter solutions, they pose four critical questions every small church should ask to clarify strategy, focus resources, and take meaningful steps forward . Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church consultants with The Malphurs Group, equipping churches worldwide to grow healthier through strategic planning, leadership development, and revitalization. Whether you lead a small church or simply want practical insights, you’ll find encouragement and actionable takeaways here. In this episode: [05:17] Why visibility—both in the community and online—matters for small churches [13:20] How to identify and invest in “tent-pole” ministries like kids or outreach [20:02] Why doubling down on bold, biblical teaching leads to real growth [25:28] Building spiritual friendships that last from Sunday to Sunday [29:45] How to balance patience with urgency when leading change Links & Resources: Healthy Churches Toolkit: Episode Article: Website: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: X (Twitter):
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Should Your Church Do Strategic Planning Between Pastors?
10/22/2025
Should Your Church Do Strategic Planning Between Pastors?
Should your church do strategic planning during a pastoral transition—or wait until a new pastor arrives? In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu tackle one of the most common questions churches ask during seasons of change. They outline why planning now is almost always the better choice and how it can set up your next pastor and congregation for long-term success. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church consultants with The Malphurs Group, equipping churches worldwide to grow healthier through strategic planning, leadership development, and revitalization. With over a decade of experience, they share practical wisdom for navigating transitions with clarity and confidence. In this episode: [02:10] When strategic planning may not be the right timing [05:30] How planning shapes better job postings and candidate alignment [08:13] Why pre-planning strengthens mission, vision, and pastoral fit [12:49] Increasing congregational buy-in and unity during transition [18:38] Giving your next pastor a better decision-making framework [22:01] Addressing the concern of “cutting out” the new pastor Links & Resources: Healthy Churches Toolkit: Episode Article: Website: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: X (Twitter):
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How Pastors Can Balance Shepherding and Vision
10/15/2025
How Pastors Can Balance Shepherding and Vision
How can shepherding pastors lead effectively in vision and strategy? In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu address a common challenge: pastors who excel in relational and pastoral care but feel less confident when it comes to vision and strategy. They share practical steps for leaning into strengths, building balanced teams, and leading with humility while still guiding the church toward God’s future. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church consultants with The Malphurs Group, equipping churches worldwide to grow healthier through strategic planning, leadership development, and revitalization. Whether you naturally lean toward shepherding or strategy, you’ll find encouragement and tools to lead with confidence. In this episode: [03:42] Recognizing your strengths and weaknesses without self-doubt [08:09] Why building a complementary team is essential for balance [11:01] How to live your role and lean into your pastoral strengths [13:57] Avoiding pride and empowering others to lead alongside you [15:33] Lessons from Moses and the importance of humility in leadership Links & Resources: Healthy Churches Toolkit: Episode Article: Website: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: X (Twitter):
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How to Get Your People to USE Planning Center
10/08/2025
How to Get Your People to USE Planning Center
How do you get your team to actually use Planning Center—or any church management software—consistently?In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu share practical strategies to boost adoption and ensure your church gets the most value from your ChMS investment. From identifying the right core features to building solid onboarding systems, you’ll learn how to turn good intentions into long-term habits. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church consultants with The Malphurs Group, equipping churches worldwide to grow healthier through strategic planning, leadership development, and revitalization. Whether your team is brand new to Planning Center or you’ve been using it for years, you’ll find actionable tips to increase buy-in and effectiveness. In this episode: [04:02] How to determine the most critical features for everyone to use [09:37] The importance of onboarding and re-training for lasting adoption [14:15] Why checklists are your secret weapon for consistent use [18:26] How to build accountability into your software processes [21:58] Encouraging a culture of shared responsibility with Planning Center Links & Resources: Healthy Churches Toolkit: Episode Article: Website: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: X (Twitter):
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