
The LeadingSmart Podcast
Honest conversations. Practical insights. Smarter leadership.
Hosted by Tim Stevens and Holly Tate, The LeadingSmart Podcast exists to equip church leaders who care deeply about leading with integrity, clarity, and wisdom—even when it’s hard.
In Season One, we’re diving into a topic most churches avoid until it’s too late: pastoral succession. Over 10 episodes, we’ll pull back the curtain on one of the most critical and complex leadership conversations in the Church today.
Whether you’re a senior pastor beginning to ask “what’s next?”, a board member trying to plan for the future, or a staff leader walking through change, this season will give you the tools, language, and courage to navigate succession well.
Here’s what you can expect each week:
Insight from decades of experience helping churches through transition
Honest stories from the frontlines
Tangible takeaways you can apply with your team, board, or congregation
And of course…our weekly Rants & Raves on everything from leadership to soft pants 😄
Because the truth is: Succession isn’t a moment. It’s a mindset. And it starts long before you think you’re ready.
#LeadingSmartPodcast, #ChurchLeadership, #SuccessionPlanning, #LeadershipDevelopment, #ExecutivePastor, #LeadershipTools, #MinistryCoaching, #LeadershipPodcast
Episodes
40 Lessons, 4 Voices: The Stevens Kids on Growing Up in Ministry

How To Lead Through Messy Situations

The Single Greatest Responsibility of Every Leader (& Why Most Get It Wrong)

35 Years of Marriage in Ministry: Real Talk About Tough Transitions & Building Unity with Faith Stevens

Balancing Identity and Longevity in Church Leadership

5 Lessons I Wish I Knew At 18

What Does A Healthy Pastoral Transition Look Like?│Pastoral Succession

How To Build The Ideal Senior Pastor Profile │Pastoral Succession

The 8 Key Responsibilities of an Effective Transition Team | Pastoral Succession

How To Communicate the Transition When It Comes To Pastoral Succession | Pastoral Succession

Church Finances and Pastoral Succession | Pastoral Succession

Are Internal Successors an Opportunity or Landmine? | Pastoral Succession

The Board’s Role in a Healthy Pastoral Succession | Pastoral Succession

The Senior Pastor’s Personal Journey | Pastoral Succession

7 Signs It’s Time to Talk About Pastoral Succession | Pastoral Succession

Introducing The LeadingSmart Podcast - Pastoral Succession

Why Pastoral Succession Matters More Than You Think | Pastoral Succession
