Advertise on podcast: Eagle Brook Church Leadership Podcast

As a leader, how do you help develop future leaders vs. simply managing people? In this episode, Don and John talk with TJ Palme about how to coach your team to reach their full potential. Learn how to recognize individual strengths and weaknesses, provide constructive feedback, and establish practical leadership frameworks.

Many characteristics can contribute to a healthy workplace culture, but self-awareness stands out as one of the most impactful. Don and John sit down to explore why it matters and how to strengthen it within yourself and your team.

Don and Jon talk with Madison Gulley, the Online Viewing Groups pastor, and Randon Ruggles, a Viewing Group host, about what viewing groups are, how they work, and why they matter. They go through the challenges, the meaningful moments, and the impact of people gathering to watch church from anywhere in the world—and practical ways you can get involved.

From 8 years of services in a high school to finally launching a new permanent location—the Plymouth campus is finally here! Don and John sit down with the Plymouth campus pastor, Mike Emmert, and worship pastor Chris Mason to tell the story behind it all. They talk through the challenge and setbacks, the small wins that kept them going, and the moments that make it all worth it.

From the business world to full-time ministry, Michelle Nelson—the Executive Director of Operations at Eagle Brook—sits down with John and Don to talk about what it's like to transition careers...from the positives to the challenges and everything in between. If you feel called to a career in ministry, this one's for you. 

Did Don get inducted into the White Castle Hall of Fame?! You know it. He and John discuss how to create extraordinary experiences out of ordinary moments, sharing helpful insights and reminders for leaders. If you believe in something, make it count!

Ever feel drained or stuck in a mental fog? Don and John take a seat with Kyle Idleman, a bestselling author and senior pastor at Southeast Christian Church. Based on Kyle's book, Every Thought Captive, they discuss how to take control of your thoughts by identifying and reframing unhealthy patterns to calm the mental chaos that keeps you stuck, drains your hope, and holds you back.

Don and John are back with a special episode with Merlin Satrom, Ross Allen, and Linda Goodwin from the Eagle Brook Board. They chat with a live audience of Eagle Brook staff and share thoughts on creating a leadership culture that fosters innovation, spiritual well-being in ministry, and the importance of a mission while being part of God’s work in and through the church.

Don and John sit down with Jenny Boyett, co-founder of The ColorWorks Group. They explore dynamics between four temperament categories linked to colors and discovered through a personality assessment (everyone loves a good personality test). Find a new understanding of what makes a healthy team as they unpack the attitudes, moods, and behaviors that shape the workplace.

Merlin Satrom, the chairman of the Eagle Brook Board, joins Don and John to talk about the importance of valuing different perspectives. Together, they’ll talk about how the best leaders set themselves up for success, make solid decisions, and share their expertise and perspectives with others.

The Bible can be intimidating and confusing—even for those who've spent a lot of time in church. With so many translations, commentaries, and interpretations, how do you know you're reading it for all it's worth? Don and John chat with Mike Holmes, a biblical scholar, published author, and professor, to find out. Because when leaders get better, the church gets better!

Listen in as Don and John talk through the complex dynamics of innovation as a leader. Need to cast vision to a supervisor or stakeholder? Discover key insights into problem-solving and self-filtering to support thoughtful proposals. Lead boldly and elevate your ministry by fostering a culture of innovation.

There's no “one size fits all” when it comes to marketing. As digital spaces continue to evolve, engaging with an audience has never been easier—and the words we choose have never been more important. So how does a church approach marketing the message of Jesus in today's digital landscape? Don and John talk with Karianne Langfield—the Communications and Digital Director—about making faith accessible to everyone, no matter their background.

Don and John chat with Steve Whicker—regional director and Rochester campus pastor—about the value of goal setting and habit building. They get real about self-discipline and consistency, including a look into Steve’s systematic approach to habit stacking.

Don and John sit down with Dawn Wicklund and Bruce Jarman, the campus pastors of Red Wing and Brainerd Lakes, to discuss all things change—from the initial vision behind expansion to navigating transitions, challenges, and everything in between. Along the way, they share stories of faith and insightful advice for leaders.