This is not a conference—and it’s not for everyone.
We host a small gathering of Executive Pastors (and other second chair leaders) who are leading at a high level and want to be in the room with peers who understand the weight they carry. Think TED Talk meets Roundtable, but with far fewer people and far more honesty.
There are no keynote speakers and no spectators. Every person in the room contributes. The conversations are real, the relationships go deeper, and the learning sticks because it’s rooted in what you’re actually facing right now.
We keep the group intentionally small so the dialogue stays candid and valuable. The agenda is shaped by the leaders in the room, focusing on the issues that don’t have easy answers—staff culture, hiring and firing, budgeting and generosity, facilities and growth, multi-site and mergers, governance and boards, and how to lead well without burning out.
If you’re looking for a conference heavy with content, this might not be your thing.
If you’re looking for the right room with real conversations, this is it.
What Others Had to Say…
The single best investment in my development and growth as an Executive Pastor each year!”
Jason Gianotti
Executive Pastor | Daybreak Church
“No hype, no silver bullets. Just smart, practical ideas that strengthen what’s already working and make it even better. The networking was the best part: real connections, real wisdom, and people I can’t wait to see again next year.”
Sarah Davidson
Executive Pastor | Preston Trail Community Church
“Honestly one of the most impactful and worthwhile gatherings I’ve been part of in years for Executive Pastors. Real conversations, real encouragement, real sharpening.”
Jonathan Reynolds
Executive Pastor | Christ Place Church
Meet Your Hosts
Tim Stevens and Holly Tate bring a rare combination of experience, strategy, and heart to the work of leading churches through seasons of growth and transition.
Tim is the founder of LeadingSmart and a strategic advisor to churches across the country. He served as Executive Pastor at Granger Church, shaped hiring strategy as VP of Consulting at Vanderbloemen, and helped rebuild Willow Creek as Executive Pastor of Culture & Campuses.
Holly has been advising churches for nearly fifteen years, serving as VP of Marketing at Vanderbloemen, Chief Marketing & Services Officer at Leadr, founder of The Ready Network, and Senior Consultant at LeadingSmart, where she helps leaders align strategy, structure, and culture for sustainable growth.
Together, they combine practical wisdom and proven frameworks to help leaders build healthy teams and organizations that are ready to lead with clarity and care. They cohost The LeadingSmart Podcast and are both certified Working Genius Facilitators.
*Super Early Bird Rate through July 15th
Join us in Palm Springs, California, January 27-29, 2027 to learn from Tim Stevens, Holly Tate, and your peers from churches around the country. Limited to the first 40 registrations!
*Pricing includes event, meals, lodging, experiences, parking, and invaluable memories and networking. Event begins at 2pm on the first day, and concludes at Noon on the 3rd day.
Travel and transportation is not included. Venue is 10 miles from Palm Springs Airport (PSP). No refunds for cancellations—however you can transfer the registration to another individual.