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Ministry Is Emotional. Marriage Is Messy. Here’s How We’ve Made It Work.
Ministry Is Emotional. Marriage Is Messy. Here’s How We’ve Made It Work.

After 35 years of marriage and 40 years in ministry, Tim and Faith Stevens share what’s helped them stay healthy, connected, and on the same team—even through cross-country moves, career changes, and seasons of exhaustion. Tune into season 2: episode 3 of The LeadingSmart Podcast here.

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LeadershipAnna BakerAugust 12, 2025Comment
When People Leave Your Church (And It Feels Personal)
When People Leave Your Church (And It Feels Personal)

When people leave your church, it can feel deeply personal—especially for pastors who lead with their whole heart. In this blog, I share honest, hard-won wisdom on navigating the pain of ministry departures without losing yourself in the process.

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LeadershipAnna BakerAugust 7, 2025Comment
Overcoming an Identity Crisis in Ministry
Overcoming an Identity Crisis in Ministry

After 40 years in ministry—including 20 at one church—Tim Stevens shares hard-won lessons about longevity, avoiding burnout, and knowing when it’s time to move on. Tune into season 2: episode 2 of The LeadingSmart Podcast here.

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LeadershipAnna BakerAugust 5, 2025Comment
Hey Pastor – You Are Not Your Job
Hey Pastor – You Are Not Your Job

Have you ever asked yourself, “Who am I without the title?” When your identity is tied to your role as pastor, stepping away can feel like losing yourself. Here’s how to reclaim who you are—before the title is gone.

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LeadershipAnna BakerJuly 31, 2025Comment
What 40 Years in Ministry Have Taught Me (So Far)
What 40 Years in Ministry Have Taught Me (So Far)

This year marks 40 years since I started full-time ministry. So for Season 2 of the LeadingSmart Podcast, Holly and I decided to take a look back. Not to reminisce (okay, maybe a little), but to reflect on the lessons I’ve picked up along the way—some the easy way, most the hard way. Tune in.

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LeadershipAnna BakerJuly 29, 2025Comment
Staffing & Structure After Pastoral Succession: How to Finish the Transition Well
Staffing & Structure After Pastoral Succession: How to Finish the Transition Well

Succession doesn’t end with the handoff. In Episode 10 of the LeadingSmart Podcast, we explore how to restructure your team, support your new pastor, and protect staff culture after the transition—plus a sneak peek at what’s coming in Season 2.

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LeadershipAnna BakerJuly 22, 2025Comment
Church Staff Bonuses? Here’s What I Recommend After 40 Years in Ministry
Church Staff Bonuses? Here’s What I Recommend After 40 Years in Ministry

Wondering if pastors or church staff should receive bonuses? After 40 years in ministry, here’s my take on church staff bonuses—what works, what doesn’t, and how to lead your team with fairness and wisdom.

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LeadershipAnna BakerJuly 16, 2025Comment
Avoid the Wrong Fit: How a Senior Pastor Profile Protects Your Pastoral Succession Process
Avoid the Wrong Fit: How a Senior Pastor Profile Protects Your Pastoral Succession Process

Before you interview a single candidate, build the profile. In Episode 9 of the LeadingSmart Podcast, we explore why a clear Senior Pastor Profile is essential to a healthy succession—and how it helps your church stay aligned, objective, and mission-focused.

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LeadershipAnna BakerJuly 15, 2025Comment
The Pastoral Succession Transition Team: Who Should Be on It—and What Do They Actually Do?
The Pastoral Succession Transition Team: Who Should Be on It—and What Do They Actually Do?

Who should be on your church’s transition team when it’s time for pastoral succession? And what should they actually do? Episode 8 of the LeadingSmart Podcast breaks down how to build the right team for a healthy pastoral succession.

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LeadershipAnna BakerJuly 9, 2025Comment
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