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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Reasons Your Gut Feeling is a Dangerous Growth Strategy
08/12/2026
Reasons Your Gut Feeling is a Dangerous Growth Strategy
Most church leaders trust their gut more than they realize, and that instinct can quietly steer a congregation in the wrong direction. In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott and A.J. walk through the most common pitfalls of gut-driven decision making, explain why anecdotal information is not the same as real data, and offer practical questions leaders can ask to start making better, more informed choices for their churches. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are the co-hosts of the Church Revitalization Podcast, produced by the Malphurs Group, a consulting firm that helps churches develop healthy strategies for growth and ministry effectiveness. Scott and A.J. bring a blend of theological grounding and practical church leadership experience to every conversation, making the show a trusted resource for pastors and ministry leaders who want their churches to thrive. [1:08] Why gut feelings can be confirmation bias dressed up as Spirit-led discernment [5:02] Problem 1: Treating anecdotes as data and confusing what is loud with what is true [9:15] Problem 2: Silence in your church is not the same as satisfaction or health [13:59] Questions to test your assumptions about ministry programming and strategy [16:49] Who in your church holds a different view, and have you actually listened to them? Free 7-Day Trial: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/352 Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup X: https://x.com/malphursgroup
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Leading Indicators That Predict Healthy Church Growth
08/05/2026
Leading Indicators That Predict Healthy Church Growth
What if you could see church growth coming before it actually arrives? In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu walk through three leading indicators that can predict future church health and growth, rather than simply reviewing what has already happened. They explain the difference between lag measures (like attendance) and lead measures, and show how tracking the right numbers gives church leaders real leverage to make smarter decisions. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are the co-hosts of the Church Revitalization Podcast, produced by the Malphurs Group, a church consulting and coaching organization. Scott serves as a Vice President at the Malphurs Group and works closely with churches navigating revitalization, while A.J. brings a background in church health strategy and practical leadership coaching. Together they make complex ministry concepts accessible and actionable for pastors and church leaders at every stage. [5:11] Lead vs. Lag Measures: The Odometer vs. Speedometer Analogy [7:55] Introduction to the Three Leading Indicators [9:08] Indicator 1: Connection Cards and First-Time Guest Engagement [15:16] Indicator 2: Moving People from Large Gatherings to Small Groups [17:46] Indicator 3: Volunteer Engagement as a Predictor of Church Health Free 7-Day Trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/351 Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup X: https://x.com/malphursgroup
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Warning Signs Your Church Is Trapped in the Consumerism Cycle
07/29/2026
Warning Signs Your Church Is Trapped in the Consumerism Cycle
Is your church full of attendees but short on disciples? In episode 350 of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott and A.J. dig into one of the most common and quietly damaging patterns in church life: the consumerism cycle. They walk through three concrete red flags that signal your congregation may be consuming church rather than contributing to it, and then offer a practical framework for shifting the culture toward ownership and discipleship. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are the co-hosts of the Church Revitalization Podcast, produced by the Malphurs Group, a nonprofit ministry dedicated to helping churches across North America thrive. Scott and A.J. bring a mix of pastoral insight and practical strategy to each episode, making the show a go-to resource for pastors and church leaders navigating real challenges in ministry today. [4:04] Red Flag 1: Preference-driven complaints as a sign of a consumer mindset [7:02] Red Flag 2: Low volunteerism and the gap between attendance and participation [9:36] Red Flag 3: Giving culture and what it reveals about congregational ownership [15:43] Culture shift framework: Reframing belonging, language, and what your church asks of people [19:20] Leveraging low-bar entry points to build high commitment over time Free 7-Day Trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Episode Article (Ep. 350): https://malphursgroup.com/350 Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup X: https://x.com/malphursgroup
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Communicating with Your Church Before Strategic Planning Starts
07/22/2026
Communicating with Your Church Before Strategic Planning Starts
Is your church full of attendees but short on disciples? In episode 350 of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott and A.J. dig into one of the most common and quietly damaging patterns in church life: the consumerism cycle. They walk through three concrete red flags that signal your congregation may be consuming church rather than contributing to it, and then offer a practical framework for shifting the culture toward ownership and discipleship. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are the co-hosts of the Church Revitalization Podcast, produced by the Malphurs Group, a nonprofit ministry dedicated to helping churches across North America thrive. Scott and A.J. bring a mix of pastoral insight and practical strategy to each episode, making the show a go-to resource for pastors and church leaders navigating real challenges in ministry today. [4:04] Red Flag 1: Preference-driven complaints as a sign of a consumer mindset [7:02] Red Flag 2: Low volunteerism and the gap between attendance and participation [9:36] Red Flag 3: Giving culture and what it reveals about congregational ownership [15:43] Culture shift framework: Reframing belonging, language, and what your church asks of people [19:20] Leveraging low-bar entry points to build high commitment over time Free 7-Day Trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Episode Article (Ep. 350): https://malphursgroup.com/350 Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup X: https://x.com/malphursgroup
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The Gen Alpha Shift: 3 Things Every Kids Ministry Must Change Now
07/15/2026
The Gen Alpha Shift: 3 Things Every Kids Ministry Must Change Now
Gen Alpha kids (born 2010 to 2024) are reshaping what families expect from children's ministry, and most churches need some practical, achievable adjustments to keep up. In this episode, Scott and A.J. walk through three concrete changes any church can make to better reach Gen Alpha kids and their parents. Whether your church is just getting started or looking to sharpen what you already have, this conversation will give you a clear path forward. 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 move from decline to health. Scott brings the perspective of a millennial parent raising Gen Alpha kids, while A.J. brings a Gen X practitioner's eye for what actually works in the local church. Together they offer frank, field-tested guidance for pastors and ministry leaders every week. [4:07] Communication With Parents: Why digital-first but not digital-only matters for millennial families [9:09] Finding the Right Communication Mix: Avoiding the constant deluge and building a consistent plan [11:18] Safety Systems: Why check-in and checkout protocols are non-negotiable for Gen Alpha families [17:18] Practical Safety Setup: Single point of access, digital check-in, and low-cost ways to make it work [18:36] Tech Expectations in the Classroom: Meeting Gen Alpha where they are without dumbing down the message Free 7-Day Trial: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/348 Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup X: https://x.com/malphursgroup
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Beyond the Logo: 3 Steps to Define Your Church's Irresistible Identity
07/08/2026
Beyond the Logo: 3 Steps to Define Your Church's Irresistible Identity
What does your church actually stand for, and does your community know it? In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott and A.J. walk through three practical steps to help your church define and communicate a genuine, compelling identity, one that goes far deeper than a new logo or a refreshed website. Drawing on real examples from ministry and culture, they make the case that a church's brand must grow out of who it truly is, not out of what it wishes it looked like. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church health consultants with the Malphurs Group, a ministry dedicated to helping churches move from decline to sustainable vitality. Each week on the Church Revitalization Podcast, they bring honest conversation, practical frameworks, and field-tested insight to help pastors and church leaders do the hard work of revitalization. Whether you are a longtime listener or finding them for the first time, expect straightforward guidance rooted in decades of on-the-ground ministry experience. [1:07] Why rebranding without self-knowledge backfires, and what churches should do first [7:39] Step 1: Discovering your church's real, God-given identity [11:46] Step 2: Articulating your identity in language that is clear and distinctive [19:54] Step 3: Aligning your culture and strategy so your identity is lived out, not just stated [25:33] Starting with biblical alignment as the foundation of everything Free 7-Day Trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/347 Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup X: https://x.com/malphursgroup
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The "Side-Door" Strategy: 3 Ways to Reach Your Community Without a Sunday Invite
06/24/2026
The "Side-Door" Strategy: 3 Ways to Reach Your Community Without a Sunday Invite
Many churches default to the Sunday morning invite as their primary outreach strategy, but for a growing number of people, that front door feels intimidating before a relationship even exists. In this episode, Scott and A.J. walk through three practical "side door" approaches that churches can use to build genuine connections with their communities before ever asking someone to show up on a Sunday morning. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church health consultants with the Malphurs Group, a ministry dedicated to helping churches navigate revitalization and growth. Each week on the Church Revitalization Podcast, they bring practical, field-tested insight drawn from years of working directly with pastors and church leaders across the country. [0:38] Why the Sunday invite alone is not enough -- and the anxiety unchurched people feel about walking through the front door [5:24] Side Door 1: Community events and services your church organizes to serve people and build relationships outside the building [7:08] The "serve first, sell nothing" mindset that should shape every outreach effort your church pursues [9:48] Side Door 2: Having a consistent presence in third places where people already gather in everyday life [13:31] Side Door 3: Partnering with community organizations your neighbors already know and trust Free 7-Day Trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/346 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 Types of "Gatekeepers" in Your Church
06/17/2026
Three Types of "Gatekeepers" in Your Church
In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott and A.J. break down three distinct types of "gatekeepers" that show up in churches and how each one can quietly block healthy growth and mission. From information filters to change blockers to ego-driven power players, this conversation gives church leaders the language and insight to identify what might be holding their church back. The discussion is practical, honest, and backed by real consulting experience. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are lead consultants at the Malphurs Group, a church health and revitalization consulting ministry that has worked with hundreds of churches across the country. Each week on the Church Revitalization Podcast, they bring field-tested insights to help pastors and church leaders navigate the real challenges of leading a church toward health and mission. Whether you are a longtime listener or just finding the show, you will find their conversations to be direct, grounded, and genuinely helpful. [1:20] Defining what a gatekeeper actually is in a church context [5:50] Gatekeeper Type 1: The person who controls what the pastor gets to hear [8:47] Gatekeeper Type 2: The person or group that blocks change before it can happen [14:33] Gatekeeper Type 3: The leader whose ego or insecurity becomes a barrier to progress [26:02] How to actually work around the gatekeeper problem in your church Free 7-Day Trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/345 Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup X: https://x.com/malphursgroup
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Overcoming Decision Fatigue for Pastors
06/10/2026
Overcoming Decision Fatigue for Pastors
Pastors make hundreds of decisions every week, and not all of them deserve the same mental energy. In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott and A.J. walk through four practical categories of decisions that pastors should consider offloading, delegating, or systematizing so that the decisions that truly matter get the attention they deserve. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church consultants with the Malphurs Group, a ministry dedicated to helping churches move toward health and sustainable growth. Each week on the Church Revitalization Podcast, they bring practical, field-tested insights drawn from years of working directly with pastors and church leadership teams across the country. [3:40] Category 1: Operational and Administrative Decisions — Why routine approvals, purchases, and scheduling items should never land on the pastor's desk [8:08] Category 2: Pastoral Care Decisions — How to triage care needs and build a team so the pastor is not the first and only point of contact [10:59] Category 3: Volunteer and Ministry Team Decisions — Giving volunteers real authority within clear boundaries so leaders stop second-guessing every call [15:04] Category 4: Requests That Should Follow a Written Process — Why benevolence, events, and staff time off need a policy, not a conversation [16:56] Practical Next Step — How to track your decisions this week and identify which ones you should stop making altogether Free 7-Day Trial: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/344 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 Financial Reports Every Church Should Make
06/03/2026
Three Financial Reports Every Church Should Make
Most church finance reports put people to sleep, but they don't have to. In this episode, Scott and A.J. walk through three financial reports every church should be sharing with its congregation, including one that almost no church is currently doing. These reports go beyond the standard budget line items to give leaders and members a clearer, more motivating picture of where the church stands financially and where it is headed. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are the co-hosts of the Church Revitalization Podcast, produced by the Malphurs Group, a consulting and coaching ministry dedicated to helping churches become healthier and more effective. Scott serves as the President of the Malphurs Group, and A.J. is a ministry consultant and coach on the team. Together they bring practical, research-informed guidance to pastors and church leaders each week. [2:37] Report 1: The Giving Trend Report and what it reveals over time [7:09] Report 2: A fresh approach to presenting your church budget [12:55] Report 3: The Giving Units Report that most churches are not tracking [15:29] Why showing giving unit trends on screen can be powerful for the congregation [18:45] How to close your financial report with transparency and encouragement Free 7-Day Trial: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/343 Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup X: https://x.com/malphursgroup
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3 Signs Your Pastor (or You!) Can't Receive Feedback
05/27/2026
3 Signs Your Pastor (or You!) Can't Receive Feedback
Every pastor says they want honest feedback, but do their actions back that up? In this episode, Scott and A.J. walk through three clear signs that a pastor or any church leader may have a blind spot when it comes to receiving input, from defensive reactions to punishing the messenger to making decisions in a complete vacuum. If you have ever felt like bringing feedback to your leader is more trouble than it is worth, this episode will help you name what you are seeing. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are lead consultants at the Malphurs Group, a church consulting and coaching organization dedicated to helping established churches find a way forward. Each week on the Church Revitalization Podcast, they bring practical, field-tested insight drawn from years of working directly with pastors and church leadership teams across the country. Their conversations are honest, sometimes funny, and always aimed at helping churches become healthier. [4:35] Sign 1: Defensiveness — shutting down conversations and deflecting feedback [10:25] Sign 2: Punishing the Messenger — what happens when the person who brings information pays a price for it [12:58] Sign 3: Decisions Made in a Vacuum — leading without meaningful input from the team [13:57] Real-World Story — a case study from the consulting room showing all three signs in action [20:11] The Payoff of Humility — why leaders who welcome feedback lead longer and lead better Free 7-Day Trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/342 Follow the Malphurs Group: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup https://instagram.com/malphursgroup https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup https://x.com/malphursgroup
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Three Ways Being "Nice" is Killing Your Church Revitalization
05/20/2026
Three Ways Being "Nice" is Killing Your Church Revitalization
Being nice sounds like a virtue, but in church revitalization it can quietly work against you. In this episode, Scott and A.J. walk through three specific ways that avoiding hard conversations and tolerating the wrong things in the name of kindness can stall or even sabotage your church's mission. The goal is not to be harsh, but to lead with the kind of courageous clarity that actually serves your congregation well. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are ministry strategists and consultants with the Malphurs Group, a firm dedicated to helping churches develop healthy, mission-driven cultures. Each week they bring practical leadership insight to pastors and church leaders navigating the challenges of revitalization. Whether you are a longtime listener or joining for the first time, you will find their conversations grounded, direct, and built for real-world ministry. [4:44] Way 1: Tolerating the Wrong People in the Wrong Roles [10:12] Way 2: How Being Nice Can Derail Your Planning [15:53] Softening Fear to Maintain Comfort Only Makes Leading Harder Later [16:00] Way 3: Letting Culture Drift [21:39] The Closing Challenge: Be Strong, Be Kind, and Actually Lead Free 7-Day Trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/341 Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup X: https://x.com/malphursgroup
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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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