Shaila Visser from Alpha on Leading for Longevity and A New Moment for Evangelism in Canada
Every leader faces moments when vision dims and passion wavers. How do we sustain a long-term vision for ministry while leading with joy and conviction? In this episode, Shaila Visser, National Director of Alpha Canada, joins Jason Ballard to share insights from her extensive leadership experience. She reflects on 14 years of ministry, the shifting spiritual landscape in Canada, and the personal rhythms that sustain evangelistic passion.
Helen Burns on the Tension Between Production & Authenticity, the Crisis of Pastoral Belonging, and Why Gen Z is Looking For Presence Over Information
Our guest today is Helen Burns, a beloved voice in the Canadian Church with 38 years of ministry experience. Helen and her husband John planted Relate Church in 1986, serving as lead pastors for 35 years before transitioning leadership to their daughter Angela and her husband Rod in 2018.
With a deep love for the Church and a heart for the next generation, Helen shares invaluable insights on leadership transitions, the shift from performance-driven ministry to authentic presence, and the importance of intergenerational relationships. This in-person conversation, recorded in Helen’s home, is one we are thrilled to share with you.
Evan Allnutt on Recapturing Courage & Releasing Your Vision For God’s Call
Our guest today is Evan Allnutt, Lead Pastor of Northgate Church, who has been faithfully serving in ministry for over 15 years. Evan’s journey has included transitioning from teaching to full-time ministry, taking on the leadership of Northgate, and navigating the challenges of church growth and cultural shifts.
In this conversation, Evan shares his personal experiences with surrendering to God's call, overcoming moments of discouragement, and the importance of community in sustaining long-term ministry. With a deep passion for the Church and a heart for those in leadership, this conversation is filled with encouragement and practical wisdom.
Mark Buchanan on Pastoring Others Without Losing Your Soul, Growing Deep Over Fast, and Telling Gospel-Shaped Stories
Our guest today is Mark Buchanan, author, former pastor, and professor of theology, who brings decades of experience in ministry and spiritual formation. Throughout his journey, Mark has wrestled with the challenges of maintaining personal spiritual health while faithfully leading others, offering a powerful example of humble service rooted in dependence on Christ.
In this conversation, Mark reflects on the struggles of soul drift and the importance of pastoring others without losing yourself. He shares insights on the value of growing deep in faith over seeking quick success, and the transformative power of gospel-shaped storytelling in shaping spiritual lives. Mark also discusses how imagination and creativity can enrich our relationship with God and how cultivating a hidden life with God sustains long-term ministry health. This episode is filled with wisdom, vulnerability, and a deep love for God’s people, offering encouragement and reflection for pastors and leaders in any season of ministry.
Tammy Giffen on Neighbourhood Contextualization, Processing When People Leave, and What Helps Canada Feel Smaller
Our guest today is Tammy Giffen, Lead Pastor of Groundswell Church in Truro, Nova Scotia, who has navigated her church through a season of significant change. Tammy shares her experience of leading a church plant, transitioning into a new building, and adapting ministry to meet the evolving needs of her community.
In this conversation, Tammy reflects on the importance of staying open-handed in ministry, creating space for young leaders to thrive, and staying faithful to the mission during times of transition. Her insights offer encouragement for leaders facing change, reminding us that faithfulness and adaptability are key to sustaining ministry through challenges.
Jonathan Smith On Nurturing Change in Churches with Compassion, Embracing the Vitality of Pruning for Church Growth, and Recognizing the Essential Role of Spiritual Mentors
How do church leaders navigate change while building for the next generation?
In this episode, Jonathan Smith, a seasoned pastor with over 30 years of experience, joins Jason Ballard to share insights on leading through transition. From planting a church at 23 to guiding an established congregation, Jonathan unpacks what it takes to sustain vision, embrace innovation, and create space for young leaders. He reflects on the challenges of change, the importance of mentorship, and how churches can remain faithful while adapting to a shifting culture.