In this episode of the Ministry Mix Podcast, Phil and Richard explore what happens when the people who helped shape you in ministry are no longer there—whether through death, burnout, moral failure, or natural transition. They open up about their own experiences of losing key influences in their life and the disorienting, yet defining impact it can have on a leader's soul and direction.

The conversation covers:

• Why losing a mentor hits harder than expected
• How feelings of grief, betrayal, and disillusionment can affect your leadership
• The dangers of dependency and idolizing mentors
• How to grow into your own leadership voice when the voices you relied on are gone
• Why it's worth the risk to keep pursuing deep, formative relationships in ministry

Packed with personal stories, biblical reflections, and raw insight, this episode is a reminder that while mentors may come and go, the call of God remains—and so does the opportunity to become the kind of leader others can lean on.

Key Quote:
"Our ministry can’t be built on the mountains of men—it has to rest on the faithfulness of God."

Let us know what this conversation stirred up for you. Connect with us on socials or drop a review to help other ministry leaders find the show.

In this episode of Ministry Mix, Phil and Richard explore one of the most vital tasks of ministry leadership—helping people move toward the mission of God. Drawing from real-life stories and pastoral experience, they walk through eight practical ways to encourage everyday believers to live on mission.

From telling everyday stories of obedience, to normalizing small steps of faith, to making prayer and missional rhythms part of church culture, this conversation is full of accessible ideas any ministry leader can implement. Whether you lead a small church or a large team, this episode challenges the idea that mission is just for the professionals—and reminds us it’s the calling of every Christian.

You’ll hear quotes from Spurgeon, examples from churches, and honest thoughts on why not every sermon—or season—feels like a “home run.” But more than that, you’ll get tools to help your people take real, faithful steps forward in living out the Great Commission—starting now.

Not every church leader dreams of running events—but nearly all of us do. In this episode, Chris Ford returns to Ministry Mix to share what he’s learned as a full-time event planner and volunteer church leader. From hosting massive music festivals to pulling off a church Christmas party, Chris has seen it all—and made a few mistakes so you don’t have to.

We dive into the 6 keys to planning events that actually work: defining your purpose, budgeting realistically, building the right team, promoting beyond Instagram, preparing for the unexpected, and evaluating for next time. Along the way, we share fails (a flipped porta potty... yikes), unexpected wins, and the spiritual importance of planning church events that make space for people to meet Jesus.

If your church does any kind of event—big or small—this episode will make you sharper.

Topics Covered:

• Common mistakes in church event planning
• How to manage logistics and flow
• Why follow-up is just as important as set-up
• Tips for recruiting the right kind of volunteers
• Real-world promotion timelines
• How to stay calm when chaos hits

Quote of the Day:
“Every Sunday is an event—it should be a party celebrating Jesus.”

Ministry is rewarding—but let’s be honest, it’s also exhausting. In this episode of Ministry Mix, Richard Pope and Phil Gifford talk candidly about those moments when quitting ministry sounds way too appealing. Whether you're facing burnout, conflict, disappointment, or just a tough season, this episode offers real talk and six practical actions to take before you walk away.

From looking back at God's faithfulness to examining your rhythms and asking for help, Phil and Richard walk through honest stories, biblical encouragement, and wisdom gained through experience (and, of course, a few Fortnite analogies). We hope you walk away with hope, insight, and a reminder that you’re not alone—and that quitting isn’t your only option.

Reflection Questions:

What’s causing me to feel like quitting right now—frustration, fatigue, failure, or something deeper?

When I look back at my calling and God's faithfulness, how does that perspective impact how I feel today?

What might God still be doing around the corner that I can’t yet see? Am I willing to wait?

Have I talked to a trusted, safe person about what I’m feeling—or am I carrying it alone?

What rhythms (rest, prayer, Scripture, community) have I let slip in this season? How can I get back to them?

If I do leave or make a change, will it be from a place of health and calling—or reaction and burnout?

In this episode of Ministry Mix, Phil and Richard dive into one of the most critical but often overlooked aspects of evangelism—building trust with those who are spiritually disconnected. Drawing insights from the book I Once Was Lost, they explore the first key threshold people must cross before embracing faith: trusting a Christian. With skepticism toward church leaders at an all-time high and many self-identified Christians not actively engaged in church, trust is a crucial foundation for meaningful gospel conversations.

The hosts unpack six signs that indicate you’re building trust with spiritually disconnected people, from learning their stories and receiving honest conversations to becoming someone they turn to in moments of need. They also discuss practical ways to break down barriers, avoid treating people as projects, and genuinely care for others beyond a Sunday morning invitation. If you want to cultivate real relationships that lead to spiritual transformation, this episode is for you.

Reflection Question:

1) Have you intentionally taken time to ask about and understand the background and story of the spiritually disconnected people in your life?

2) Are there non-believers or disconnected Christians in your circle who feel comfortable enough to ask for help when they need it? If not, why might that be?

3) Do spiritually disconnected people feel safe enough to be themselves around you, or do they seem to filter their words and actions in your presence?

4) Does your online presence align with the character and faith you live out in everyday life? Are there areas where you might be unintentionally harming your witness?

5) How will you invest time in friendships with spiritually disconnected people outside of church events and evangelistic efforts?