Worship ministry is more than music. It is people.

In this episode of the Brentwood Baptist Leadership Podcast, Mack Burns sits down with Travis Cottrell to discuss what it takes to lead a worship team with a healthy culture, clear communication, and genuine care for the people behind the platform.

Travis shares simple, foundational markers of a healthy team, how to set vision and priorities (like authenticity over performance), and how to correct with encouragement without crushing someone’s spirit. They also talk about practical ways to care for volunteers, build sustainable rhythms, and remind your team that every Sunday is a spiritual moment in someone’s life.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

The clearest signs of a healthy worship team culture
How to shape culture by sharing vision and priorities consistently
Why authenticity should always come before performative excellence
How to give creatives room while keeping the goal people-focused
A wise approach to hard conversations that correct without crushing
How to notice when someone needs rest and build sustainable serving rhythms
One simple step worship leaders can take this month to lead better

Meet the Guests

Mack Burns – Worship Minister at The Church at West Franklin

Travis Cottrell – Worship Minister at Brentwood Baptist Church

Register for the Elevate Conference

This episode is part of our March focus on worship ministry, leading up to Elevate Church Conference on September 21–22, 2026. Learn more and register at elevatechurchconference.com.