The Christian Leader Made Simple Show

Hosted by Ryan Franklin | Christian Leader Made Simple

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Episodes

290

Latest episode

Oct 2026

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EN-US

About the show

Many leaders are searching for clarity in a very confusing world. Their lives are chaotic and they struggle with their effectiveness, and as a result, they don’t enjoy leadership as much as they could. I provide a framework called The Christian Leader Blueprint that helps leaders learn and master the biblical skills needed to improve their leadership health and effectiveness. It helps a person gain a better rhythm of life, see themselves more clearly, leverage their strengths, and produce more productive relationships. You can download The Christian Leader Blueprint - Short Guide for free today at www.ryanfranklin.org. #leadershipdevelopment #personalgrowth #leadership #ministry #pastors #churches #leadershiptraining #christianleader #leader #influence #executivecoach #leadershipcoaching #productivity

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60 recent

October 22, 2026Episode 28611 min

The Leadership Trap of Needing Everyone to Like You | Dr. Barry Corey

Link to the full podcast: https://youtu.be/JIzO1l2r69I?si=ow-0EKjHMc7y0poN You’re still showing up. But are you leading with clarity — or just holding it together? Take 15 minutes to reflect with the Christian Leader® Self-Assessment — a simple tool to help you see what’s really working... and what’s quietly wearing you out. It’s free! https://www.ryanfranklin.org/clselfassessment Description: Dr. Barry Corey, former president of Biola University and author of Make the Most of It, discusses the realities of leadership and what he calls the “splendid agony” of leading. He explains how burdens such as loneliness, discretion, identity, and perpetual challenges are an unavoidable part of leadership. Rather than viewing these burdens solely as difficulties, Dr. Corey encourages leaders to recognize them as opportunities for growth, greater strength, healthier endurance, courageous decisions, and stronger relationships. Purchase Christian Leader Sight Planner (a tool that has drastically changed Ryan’s productivity): Black Cover – https://amzn.to/3JpBHvm Blue Cover – https://amzn.to/4ouFRB9 Green Cover – https://amzn.to/4oXVLUr Purchase The Christian Leader Blueprint book today: https://www.ryanfranklin.org/blueprintbook Connect with Ryan: Email: info@ryanfranklin.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rnfranklin/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rnfranklin/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rnfranklin/ Website: https://www.ryanfranklin.org Audio mastering by Apostolic Audio: https://www.apostolic-audio.com #leadership, #thoughtleadership, #ministry, #pastor, #pastors, #churches, #leadershiptraining, #churchleader, #churchleaders, #influence, #leadershipdevelopment, #coaching, #executivecoach, #leadershipcoaching, #productivitycoach, #productivity, #growthmindset, #theproductiveleader, #ChristianLeader, #ChristianLeadership, #LeadershipPodcast, #FaithAndBusiness, #PodcastInterview, #ChristianEntrepreneurship, #KingdomImpact, #PodcastInspiration, #LeadershipJourney, #PurposeDriven, #ChristianPodcast, #LeadershipEssentials, #LeadershipFundamentals Send us Fan Mail

October 19, 2026Episode 28510 min

Why You Can't Protect Anyone Until You Protect Yourself | Lincoln Graham Jr.

Link to the full podcast: https://youtu.be/vPTjkTSGM4c?si=dmS22dcjmLzZKmGM You’re still showing up. But are you leading with clarity — or just holding it together? Take 15 minutes to reflect with the Christian Leader® Self-Assessment — a simple tool to help you see what’s really working... and what’s quietly wearing you out. It’s free! https://www.ryanfranklin.org/clselfassessment Description: Lincoln Graham Jr. reflects on growing up as a pastor’s kid and witnessing firsthand the damage that overextending oneself in ministry can have on a family. His early exposure to the hardships of ministry caused him to resist his own calling, but ultimately led him to embrace it. After experiencing physical and emotional burnout himself, Graham recognized the need for healthy boundaries. Through Scripture and a deeper understanding of stewardship, he learned that caring for his wife, children, health, and congregation requires serving and protecting what God has entrusted to him. Purchase Christian Leader Sight Planner (a tool that has drastically changed Ryan’s productivity): Black Cover – https://amzn.to/3JpBHvm Blue Cover – https://amzn.to/4ouFRB9 Green Cover – https://amzn.to/4oXVLUr Purchase The Christian Leader Blueprint book today: https://www.ryanfranklin.org/blueprintbook Connect with Ryan: Email: info@ryanfranklin.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rnfranklin/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rnfranklin/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rnfranklin/ Website: https://www.ryanfranklin.org Audio mastering by Apostolic Audio: https://www.apostolic-audio.com #leadership, #thoughtleadership, #ministry, #pastor, #pastors, #churches, #leadershiptraining, #churchleader, #churchleaders, #influence, #leadershipdevelopment, #coaching, #executivecoach, #leadershipcoaching, #productivitycoach, #productivity, #growthmindset, #theproductiveleader, #ChristianLeader, #ChristianLeadership, #LeadershipPodcast, #FaithAndBusiness, #PodcastInterview, #ChristianEntrepreneurship, #KingdomImpact, #PodcastInspiration, #LeadershipJourney, #PurposeDriven, #ChristianPodcast, #LeadershipEssentials, #LeadershipFundamentals Send us Fan Mail

October 15, 2026Episode 28411 min

What Deleting One App Revealed About the Emotions You're Avoiding | Devin Akers

Link to the full podcast: https://youtu.be/tO0RCi5QMl0?si=PiJpmQ-hGXqrUATx You’re still showing up. But are you leading with clarity — or just holding it together? Take 15 minutes to reflect with the Christian Leader® Self-Assessment — a simple tool to help you see what’s really working... and what’s quietly wearing you out. It’s free! https://www.ryanfranklin.org/clselfassessment Description: Devin Akers discusses how stress and emotional avoidance can lead people to use distractions, such as YouTube, instead of processing their emotions. He explains how recognizing these patterns and developing self-awareness can help leaders respond to stress in healthier ways. Akers emphasizes the importance of moving toward trusted people rather than isolating yourself when struggling. He also highlights counseling as a safe and objective space for developing self-awareness, vulnerability, and healthier relationships. Finally, he discusses the importance of building a personal support team and explains how vulnerability, although difficult and frightening, can lead to healing and help reduce the loneliness often experienced in ministry. Purchase Christian Leader Sight Planner (a tool that has drastically changed Ryan’s productivity): Black Cover – https://amzn.to/3JpBHvm Blue Cover – https://amzn.to/4ouFRB9 Green Cover – https://amzn.to/4oXVLUr Purchase The Christian Leader Blueprint book today: https://www.ryanfranklin.org/blueprintbook Connect with Ryan: Email: info@ryanfranklin.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rnfranklin/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rnfranklin/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rnfranklin/ Website: https://www.ryanfranklin.org Audio mastering by Apostolic Audio: https://www.apostolic-audio.com #leadership, #thoughtleadership, #ministry, #pastor, #pastors, #churches, #leadershiptraining, #churchleader, #churchleaders, #influence, #leadershipdevelopment, #coaching, #executivecoach, #leadershipcoaching, #productivitycoach, #productivity, #growthmindset, #theproductiveleader, #ChristianLeader, #ChristianLeadership, #LeadershipPodcast, #FaithAndBusiness, #PodcastInterview, #ChristianEntrepreneurship, #KingdomImpact, #PodcastInspiration, #LeadershipJourney, #PurposeDriven, #ChristianPodcast, #LeadershipEssentials, #LeadershipFundamentals Send us Fan Mail

October 12, 2026Episode 28334 min

The Biblical Model to Dismantle Fear at Its Root | Ryan Franklin

What's subtly wearing you out? Free self-assessment for ministry leaders: https://www.ryanfranklin.org/clselfassessment Join Christian Leader® Community Coaching: https://www.ryanfranklin.org/communitycoaching In this episode, Ryan looks at Nehemiah 6 and the moment fear tried to stop the wall from being built. Not with weapons, but with words. Voices meant to distract, discredit, and discourage. Ryan shows how fear rarely shows up looking like fear. It often sounds like wisdom: "play it safe," "don't get your hopes up," "just wait for a sign." He walks through fear's three assignments (shrink your vision, blur your calling, stun your momentum) and unpacks the toolkit God has already given from 2 Timothy 1:7: power, love, and a sound mind. Ryan also shares a personal story of nearly mistaking fear for wisdom in a major life decision. The charge for this episode is simple: fear will talk, but you don't have to answer it. Stay on the wall. Keep building. Don't let fear write your story. Purchase Christian Leader Sight Planner (a tool that has drastically changed Ryan’s productivity): Black Cover – https://amzn.to/3JpBHvm Blue Cover – https://amzn.to/4ouFRB9 Green Cover – https://amzn.to/4oXVLUr Purchase The Christian Leader Blueprint book today: https://www.ryanfranklin.org/blueprintbook Connect with Ryan: Email: info@ryanfranklin.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rnfranklin/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rnfranklin/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rnfranklin/ Website: https://www.ryanfranklin.org Audio mastering by Apostolic Audio: https://www.apostolic-audio.com #leadership, #thoughtleadership, #ministry, #pastor, #pastors, #churches, #leadershiptraining, #churchleader, #churchleaders, #influence, #leadershipdevelopment, #coaching, #executivecoach, #leadershipcoaching, #productivitycoach, #productivity, #growthmindset, #theproductiveleader, #ChristianLeader, #ChristianLeadership, #LeadershipPodcast, #FaithAndBusiness, #PodcastInterview, #ChristianEntrepreneurship, #KingdomImpact, #PodcastInspiration, #LeadershipJourney, #PurposeDriven, #ChristianPodcast, #LeadershipEssentials, #LeadershipFundamentals Send us Fan Mail

October 8, 2026Episode 28210 min

Short Clip: Everybody Wants Enoch's Ending but Nobody Wants His Walk | Cortt Chavis

Link to the full podcast: https://youtu.be/xeQzGLdVM0A?si=cmKHyx1RIa8Rtf9s You’re still showing up. But are you leading with clarity — or just holding it together? Take 15 minutes to reflect with the Christian Leader® Self-Assessment — a simple tool to help you see what’s really working... and what’s quietly wearing you out. It’s free! https://www.ryanfranklin.org/clselfassessment Description: Cortt Chavis explores what it truly means to walk consistently with God through the example of Enoch. He emphasizes that God is not primarily looking for impressive ministry, titles, or accomplishments, but for faithfulness and a genuine relationship with Him. Chavis explains that our gifts, talents, and anointing are not for personal recognition but to serve God’s people. He encourages ministers to embrace a servant’s heart, remembering that leadership is about serving others while their identity remains rooted in being a child of God. Ultimately, faithfulness—not the spotlight—is what matters most. Purchase Christian Leader Sight Planner (a tool that has drastically changed Ryan’s productivity): Black Cover – https://amzn.to/3JpBHvm Blue Cover – https://amzn.to/4ouFRB9 Green Cover – https://amzn.to/4oXVLUr Purchase The Christian Leader Blueprint book today: https://www.ryanfranklin.org/blueprintbook Connect with Ryan: Email: info@ryanfranklin.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rnfranklin/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rnfranklin/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rnfranklin/ Website: https://www.ryanfranklin.org Audio mastering by Apostolic Audio: https://www.apostolic-audio.com #leadership, #thoughtleadership, #ministry, #pastor, #pastors, #churches, #leadershiptraining, #churchleader, #churchleaders, #influence, #leadershipdevelopment, #coaching, #executivecoach, #leadershipcoaching, #productivitycoach, #productivity, #growthmindset, #theproductiveleader, #ChristianLeader, #ChristianLeadership, #LeadershipPodcast, #FaithAndBusiness, #PodcastInterview, #ChristianEntrepreneurship, #KingdomImpact, #PodcastInspiration, #LeadershipJourney, #PurposeDriven, #ChristianPodcast, #LeadershipEssentials, #LeadershipFundamentals Send us Fan Mail

October 5, 2026Episode 28110 min

Short Clip: Why the Best Leaders Step Out Before They Feel Ready | Darin Sargent

Link to the full podcast: https://youtu.be/2RjJBfKCZ_s?si=ufBtRntllwf9qdrV You’re still showing up. But are you leading with clarity — or just holding it together? Take 15 minutes to reflect with the Christian Leader® Self-Assessment — a simple tool to help you see what’s really working... and what’s quietly wearing you out. It’s free! https://www.ryanfranklin.org/clselfassessment Description: Darrin Sargent reflects on how his parents instilled a mindset that nothing is impossible through perseverance, courage, and faith. Sharing stories from his childhood, he explains how those lessons shaped his leadership and ministry. As Director of Ministry Central, Darrin encourages leaders to remain confident in their identity in Christ despite today's cultural, technological, and spiritual challenges. He emphasizes that effective leadership comes from trusting God, embracing purpose over fear, and allowing God's strength to work through human weakness. Purchase Christian Leader Sight Planner (a tool that has drastically changed Ryan’s productivity): Black Cover – https://amzn.to/3JpBHvm Blue Cover – https://amzn.to/4ouFRB9 Green Cover – https://amzn.to/4oXVLUr Purchase The Christian Leader Blueprint book today: https://www.ryanfranklin.org/blueprintbook Connect with Ryan: Email: info@ryanfranklin.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rnfranklin/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rnfranklin/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rnfranklin/ Website: https://www.ryanfranklin.org Audio mastering by Apostolic Audio: https://www.apostolic-audio.com #leadership, #thoughtleadership, #ministry, #pastor, #pastors, #churches, #leadershiptraining, #churchleader, #churchleaders, #influence, #leadershipdevelopment, #coaching, #executivecoach, #leadershipcoaching, #productivitycoach, #productivity, #growthmindset, #theproductiveleader, #ChristianLeader, #ChristianLeadership, #LeadershipPodcast, #FaithAndBusiness, #PodcastInterview, #ChristianEntrepreneurship, #KingdomImpact, #PodcastInspiration, #LeadershipJourney, #PurposeDriven, #ChristianPodcast, #LeadershipEssentials, #LeadershipFundamentals Send us Fan Mail

October 1, 2026Episode 28010 min

Short Clip: The Experiment With Birds That Explains Your Phone Addiction | Devin Akers

Link to the full podcast: https://youtu.be/tO0RCi5QMl0?si=PiJpmQ-hGXqrUATx You’re still showing up. But are you leading with clarity — or just holding it together? Take 15 minutes to reflect with the Christian Leader® Self-Assessment — a simple tool to help you see what’s really working... and what’s quietly wearing you out. It’s free! https://www.ryanfranklin.org/clselfassessment Description: Devin Akers discusses how his phone use has affected his peace, sleep, focus, and ability to maintain healthy boundaries. He explains how social media and unpredictable rewards can create addictive behavioral patterns, making it difficult to disconnect. Akers shares how he has intentionally created distance from his phone by limiting access to certain apps, using Do Not Disturb, and protecting his sleep. He also explains how increased self-awareness has strengthened his marriage by improving communication, emotional expression, empathy, and conflict resolution. Purchase Christian Leader Sight Planner (a tool that has drastically changed Ryan’s productivity): Black Cover – https://amzn.to/3JpBHvm Blue Cover – https://amzn.to/4ouFRB9 Green Cover – https://amzn.to/4oXVLUr Purchase The Christian Leader Blueprint book today: https://www.ryanfranklin.org/blueprintbook Connect with Ryan: Email: info@ryanfranklin.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rnfranklin/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rnfranklin/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rnfranklin/ Website: https://www.ryanfranklin.org Audio mastering by Apostolic Audio: https://www.apostolic-audio.com #leadership, #thoughtleadership, #ministry, #pastor, #pastors, #churches, #leadershiptraining, #churchleader, #churchleaders, #influence, #leadershipdevelopment, #coaching, #executivecoach, #leadershipcoaching, #productivitycoach, #productivity, #growthmindset, #theproductiveleader, #ChristianLeader, #ChristianLeadership, #LeadershipPodcast, #FaithAndBusiness, #PodcastInterview, #ChristianEntrepreneurship, #KingdomImpact, #PodcastInspiration, #LeadershipJourney, #PurposeDriven, #ChristianPodcast, #LeadershipEssentials, #LeadershipFundamentals Send us Fan Mail

September 28, 2026Episode 27951 min

What Neuroscience and Scripture Both Say about Healing Your Brain

What's subtly wearing you out? Free self-assessment for ministry leaders: https://www.ryanfranklin.org/clselfassessment Join Christian Leader® Community Coaching: https://www.ryanfranklin.org/communitycoaching Your brain doesn't forget trauma just because time passes. It rewires around it. Dr. Carl Wilson, clinical counselor, behavioral health CEO, and pastor, breaks down what trauma actually does to a leader's brain and how Scripture becomes the counter-force that rewires it back. This one gets personal fast. If you've ever wondered why your reactions don't match the moment, this episode is for you. Connect with Dr. Carl Wilson: covenanteducationalcenter.org Purchase Christian Leader Sight Planner (a tool that has drastically changed Ryan’s productivity): Black Cover – https://amzn.to/3JpBHvm Blue Cover – https://amzn.to/4ouFRB9 Green Cover – https://amzn.to/4oXVLUr Purchase The Christian Leader Blueprint book today: https://www.ryanfranklin.org/blueprintbook Connect with Ryan: Email: info@ryanfranklin.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rnfranklin/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rnfranklin/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rnfranklin/ Website: https://www.ryanfranklin.org Audio mastering by Apostolic Audio: https://www.apostolic-audio.com #leadership, #thoughtleadership, #ministry, #pastor, #pastors, #churches, #leadershiptraining, #churchleader, #churchleaders, #influence, #leadershipdevelopment, #coaching, #executivecoach, #leadershipcoaching, #productivitycoach, #productivity, #growthmindset, #theproductiveleader, #ChristianLeader, #ChristianLeadership, #LeadershipPodcast, #FaithAndBusiness, #PodcastInterview, #ChristianEntrepreneurship, #KingdomImpact, #PodcastInspiration, #LeadershipJourney, #PurposeDriven, #ChristianPodcast, #LeadershipEssentials, #LeadershipFundamentals Send us Fan Mail

September 24, 2026Episode 2789 min

Short Clip: When Walking in the Spirit Becomes a Performance... | Cortt Chavis

Link to the full podcast: https://youtu.be/xeQzGLdVM0A?si=cmKHyx1RIa8Rtf9s You’re still showing up. But are you leading with clarity — or just holding it together? Take 15 minutes to reflect with the Christian Leader® Self-Assessment — a simple tool to help you see what’s really working... and what’s quietly wearing you out. It’s free! https://www.ryanfranklin.org/clselfassessment Description: Cortt Chavis discusses the difference between genuinely walking in the Spirit and simply performing ministry. He explains how pastors and ministers can become focused on meeting expectations while privately struggling, making ministry feel more like a performance than a relationship with God. Chavis emphasizes the importance of grace, rest, vulnerability, and being honest with God about seasons of weakness and weariness. Using Jesus’ prayer in Gethsemane as an example, he reminds listeners that God may not always remove the difficult season, but He will provide the strength needed to walk through it. Purchase Christian Leader Sight Planner (a tool that has drastically changed Ryan’s productivity): Black Cover – https://amzn.to/3JpBHvm Blue Cover – https://amzn.to/4ouFRB9 Green Cover – https://amzn.to/4oXVLUr Purchase The Christian Leader Blueprint book today: https://www.ryanfranklin.org/blueprintbook Connect with Ryan: Email: info@ryanfranklin.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rnfranklin/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rnfranklin/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rnfranklin/ Website: https://www.ryanfranklin.org Audio mastering by Apostolic Audio: https://www.apostolic-audio.com #leadership, #thoughtleadership, #ministry, #pastor, #pastors, #churches, #leadershiptraining, #churchleader, #churchleaders, #influence, #leadershipdevelopment, #coaching, #executivecoach, #leadershipcoaching, #productivitycoach, #productivity, #growthmindset, #theproductiveleader, #ChristianLeader, #ChristianLeadership, #LeadershipPodcast, #FaithAndBusiness, #PodcastInterview, #ChristianEntrepreneurship, #KingdomImpact, #PodcastInspiration, #LeadershipJourney, #PurposeDriven, #ChristianPodcast, #LeadershipEssentials, #LeadershipFundamentals Send us Fan Mail

September 21, 2026Episode 27710 min

Short Clip: Why the Best Leaders Lead From Their Weakness Not Their Strength | Darin Sargent

Link to the full podcast: https://youtu.be/2RjJBfKCZ_s?si=ufBtRntllwf9qdrV You’re still showing up. But are you leading with clarity — or just holding it together? Take 15 minutes to reflect with the Christian Leader® Self-Assessment — a simple tool to help you see what’s really working... and what’s quietly wearing you out. It’s free! https://www.ryanfranklin.org/clselfassessment Description: In this conversation, Darrin Sargent discusses how God often uses our greatest weaknesses as our greatest strengths. Drawing from his own life and ministry, he encourages leaders to embrace their imperfections instead of hiding them, trusting that God works through brokenness. He also shares insights from his book Parenting with Purpose, emphasizing intentional parenting built on love, learning, living, leading, and leaving a legacy. Darrin concludes by reminding listeners that past mistakes and perceived limitations do not disqualify them—they can become powerful tools for God's purpose and grace. Purchase Christian Leader Sight Planner (a tool that has drastically changed Ryan’s productivity): Black Cover – https://amzn.to/3JpBHvm Blue Cover – https://amzn.to/4ouFRB9 Green Cover – https://amzn.to/4oXVLUr Purchase The Christian Leader Blueprint book today: https://www.ryanfranklin.org/blueprintbook Connect with Ryan: Email: info@ryanfranklin.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rnfranklin/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rnfranklin/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rnfranklin/ Website: https://www.ryanfranklin.org Audio mastering by Apostolic Audio: https://www.apostolic-audio.com #leadership, #thoughtleadership, #ministry, #pastor, #pastors, #churches, #leadershiptraining, #churchleader, #churchleaders, #influence, #leadershipdevelopment, #coaching, #executivecoach, #leadershipcoaching, #productivitycoach, #productivity, #growthmindset, #theproductiveleader, #ChristianLeader, #ChristianLeadership, #LeadershipPodcast, #FaithAndBusiness, #PodcastInterview, #ChristianEntrepreneurship, #KingdomImpact, #PodcastInspiration, #LeadershipJourney, #PurposeDriven, #ChristianPodcast, #LeadershipEssentials, #LeadershipFundamentals Send us Fan Mail