Podcast
The Advantage Podcast
Hosted by David Ashcraft · EN
Welcome to The Advantage Podcast, a monthly unscripted conversation with host David Ashcraft and top leaders impacting our world. Created by pastors for pastors to expand our knowledge and influence. The Advantage is a ministry of LCBC Church - one church in multiple locations throughout Pennsylvania.
13episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
A Conversation with Dan Reiland
4w ago00:45:32Tap to summarizeEpisode 29 features Dan Reiland—one of the most seasoned executive pastors and leadership coaches in the church world. Dan served alongside John Maxwell for years at Skyline Church and spent 24 years as the Executive Pastor at 12Stone Church with Kevin Myers. He now coaches senior pastors and executive teams full time, and his wisdom in this conversation is the kind you don't find in a book. In this episode, David Ashcraft and Dan talk through: • When the right time is to hire an executive pastor (and what size church makes it financially feasible) • The two types of executive pastors—and why most people naturally gravitate toward one side • How to build an executive team structure that works for your church's personality • What it means to be a bottleneck—and how to know when your structure needs to change • The critical difference between equipping and developing leaders (and why legacy churches know how to do both) • A 10-minute conversation John Maxwell had with Dan in 1982 that changed the course of his ministry Whether you have an executive pastor, are thinking about hiring one, or are trying to build a healthier culture on your team—this conversation will give you language, perspective, and practical handles to take home.
Transcribe →A Conversation with Mark Grunden
Apr 800:50:23Tap to summarizeWhat if the entrepreneurs in your church could become your greatest ministry partners? In the newest episode of The Advantage Podcast, David Ashcraft talks with Mike Grunden from Faith Driven Entrepreneur about the ways pastors can engage high-capacity leaders for Kingdom impact. In their conversation, you'll discover: - Why revival often starts in "pockets of awakening" - How to overcome intimidation when connecting with business leaders - Practical tools to move entrepreneurs from the sidelines to the front lines of ministry.
Transcribe →A Conversation with Adam Hann & Christian Nelson
Mar 1100:48:21Tap to summarizeIn our newest episode of The Advantage podcast, David sits down with two leaders who are helping churches all over the country navigate one of the most confusing and rapidly changing areas of ministry today—technology. Adam Hann (LCBC) and Christian Nelson (The Christian Consulting Group) join him for a practical and eye-opening conversation about how churches can leverage technology without losing their minds or their budgets. Whether you're a digital early adopter or someone who still sees tech as a "black hole," this episode will give you clarity, confidence, and a better strategy for the road ahead. We talk about: - Why so many churches are stuck with disconnected systems that don't talk to each other - How your website and online experience have become your new front door - The real ministry impact of knowing your people through data - How to uncover untapped tech expertise that's already sitting in your church - What a healthy technology budget actually looks like - And how to thoughtfully prepare your church for the rise of AI—without panic or hype
Transcribe →A Conversation with Kent Jacobs
Feb 1100:45:05Tap to summarizeWe’re excited to welcome Kent Jacobs, founder and lead pastor of Epic Church in Philadelphia. Kent’s journey—from meeting Jesus at age 12 to launching Epic with just a handful of people—has been marked by courage, faith, and a deep desire to help every person in the city know God.In the early days of Epic, Kent reached out to LCBC simply looking to learn. That small step sparked a meaningful connection that has grown into years of friendship, encouragement, and collaboration through The Advantage. Kent and his team have been key contributors to this network as together we work to strengthen churches across Pennsylvania. In this episode, Kent shares the ups and downs of church planting in the city, the challenges of leading through COVID without a permanent facility, the surprising gift of a historic building, and the renewed hope and momentum Epic is experiencing today. You’ll hear his heart for Philadelphia, his passion for long‑term ministry, and the role collaboration has played in shaping his journey.
Transcribe →A Conversation with Chris Hodges
Jan 1400:39:24Tap to summarizeIn this episode David Ashcraft is joined by Chris Hodges, a leader known for his passion for equipping pastors and building thriving churches. Chris opens up about his personal story, the pivotal moment that led him into ministry, and how Church of the Highlands grew from a small launch team to a multi-campus church impacting thousands. You’ll hear insights on creating effective systems, raising up leaders, and keeping ministry life-giving. Plus, Chris shares wisdom on navigating leadership transitions and staying committed to the mission Jesus gave us. This conversation is packed with practical advice and inspiration for every church leader.
Transcribe →A Conversation with Bobby Gruenewald
Dec 1000:52:06Tap to summarizeThis month, host David Ashcraft sits down with Bobby Gruenewald, the visionary leader behind the global phenomenon, the YouVersion Bible App, and a key figure at Life.Church.In this insightful conversation, Bobby shares his unique journey, offering a wealth of wisdom for leaders and innovators alike:- From Early Entrepreneur to Ministry Leader: Explore Bobby's unexpected path from growing up in central Illinois and launching his own businesses to finding his calling and transitioning into a pivotal role at LifeChurch.- Lessons in Leadership & Team Building: Gain valuable insights from his experiences in rapidly growing organizations, including how he navigates team dynamics and fosters continuous learning.- The Impact of YouVersion: Hear about the incredible milestones and global reach of the YouVersion Bible App and its upcoming initiatives.- Connecting Faith & Innovation: Understand his philosophy on leveraging technology to serve a higher purpose and inspire spiritual growth worldwide.
Transcribe →A Conversation with Les McKeown
Nov 1200:48:09Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Advantage Podcast, David Ashcraft interviews Les McKeown, author of "Predictable Success," about the stages of growth that organizations go through, and how these principles apply to churches and faith-based organizations. Les shares insights on: • The "Early Struggle" phase and why the term "startup" can be misleading. • How a visionary leader's role evolves as an organization grows. • The "Whitewater" stage and the importance of high-quality team-based decision-making. • Moving from a founder mindset to a CEO mindset. • Practical steps for navigating complexity and achieving predictable success. Whether you're a pastor, church leader, or involved in any growing organization, this episode offers valuable frameworks for understanding and navigating the challenges of growth.
Transcribe →A Conversation with Ned Pelger
Oct 800:47:40Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the Advantage podcast, David Ashcraft talks with Ned Pelger, a construction expert, about his experience with church building projects and more. Ned shares his unique perspective on the importance of prioritizing value, simplifying design, and understanding the specific needs of the community the building is intended to serve. Tune in to hear: • Why churches aren't always the best customers • What challenges commonly arise in construction • How to keep building projects efficient and cost-effective Whether you're a pastor, a church leader, or even on the construction side, this conversation offers valuable insights.
Transcribe →A Conversation with Bart Rendel & Doug Parks of Intentional Churches
Sep 1000:49:49Tap to summarizeToday, we're incredibly excited to welcome Bart Rendel and Doug Parks, the creative minds behind Intentional Churches. Bart and Doug are passionate about helping churches clarify their vision, implement strategic planning, and cultivate healthy leadership, all while staying deeply rooted in biblical truth. Get ready for a dynamic and insightful conversation about revitalizing your church and making a greater impact in your community! https://www.intentionalchurches.com/ Intentional Churches Book: https://a.co/d/4mDSwAh Intentional Churches Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/5B2cLTTMQLzxjGLYDj84Pc?si=bf2878341978410e
Transcribe →A Conversation with Kevin Eshleman
Aug 1300:44:30Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Kevin shares his unique journey into ministry, his perspective on supporting ministry spouses, and practical ways to identify and develop emerging leaders within your congregation. He also emphasizes the critical importance of NOT doing ministry alone – a message that deeply resonates with the core values of The Advantage. Here are a few key takeaways: • How to identify potential leaders in unexpected places. • Strategies for supporting ministry spouses and helping them thrive. • Practical ways to engage with your community while remaining focused on the Gospel. • The power of steadfastness in a changing cultural landscape.
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