The Top 12 Pastor Podcasts I Keep Coming Back To (2026)
Over the years, podcasts have become one of my go-to companions in ministry. Some of my best learning—and honestly, encouragement—has come from listening to other pastors talk candidly about the realities of leadership, faith, pressure, and staying grounded in Jesus.
This list is personal. These are podcasts I actually listen to and recommend because they speak honestly about pastoring as it really is—not just what it’s supposed to be. If you’re looking for voices that understand the weight of ministry and still point you toward hope, these are worth your time.
Overview of The Top 12 Podcasts for Pastors
This isn’t an exhaustive list—just podcasts I actually listen to and recommend. Each one has helped me think, pray, or lead a little more clearly.
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1. The Lead Pastor Podcast - with Joshua Gordon
(COMING SOON!)
Summary:
Hosted by Joshua Gordon, The Lead Pastor Podcast feels like sitting down with trusted, seasoned pastors who understand the real weight of shepherding people. The conversations are honest, relaxed, and deeply pastoral—centered on the realities of leading a church while staying spiritually grounded. Episodes regularly feature experienced ministry leaders and offer encouragement and wisdom to help you pastor with clarity, freedom, and joy, without losing sight of Jesus in the midst of everyday ministry demands.
What You’ll Learn:
Each episode offers practical insight into the rhythms and responsibilities of pastoral life—from managing weekly ministry pressures to leading people faithfully over the long haul. You’ll hear field-tested approaches to building sustainable systems and healthy boundaries that protect your calling, free your time, and create space for prayer, teaching, discipleship, and presence with your people.
Why You Should Listen:
Subscribe to The Lead Pastor Podcast for honest conversations between pastors who lead churches like yours and genuinely understand the pastoral role. Josh and his guests speak candidly about the administrative load, relational challenges, spiritual weight, and leadership tensions that come with pastoring—offering thoughtful, pastoral wisdom and practical guidance for leading well and finishing strong.
2. The Jamie & Donna Winship Podcast - Hosts: Jamie and Donna Winship
The Jamie & Donna Winship Podcast, presented by Identity Exchange, offers listeners profound insights into the journey of discovering one's true identity. Through engaging discussions, Jamie and Donna explore themes of personal transformation, spiritual growth, and the power of living authentically. Each episode is designed to equip you with tools and strategies to embrace who you were created to be.
What You'll Learn:
- Techniques for personal and spiritual growth
- Insights into the process of identity discovery
- Strategies to live authentically and courageously
Why You Should Listen: This podcast is for anyone seeking to understand themselves better and live a life aligned with their true identity. Jamie and Donna bring years of experience and a deep passion for helping individuals unlock their potential.
Links To Listen:
About The Host: Jamie and Donna Winship are dedicated to helping people discover their true identity. Jamie, with a background in law enforcement and international conflict resolution, brings a unique perspective to personal transformation. Donna complements with her experience in education and counseling, making them a dynamic duo in the field of identity coaching.
3. The Resilient Pastor hosted by Glenn Packiam
The Resilient Pastor podcast offers insights into church leadership and the challenges faced by pastors. Each episode includes conversations with pastors, church leaders, theologians, and thinkers. They discuss the health of pastors, the current state of the church, and what it means to lead with faith and love.
What You'll Learn:
- Strategies for navigating church leadership
- Insights into maintaining pastoral well-being
- Perspectives on the modern church's challenges
Why You Should Listen: This podcast is a valuable resource for pastors seeking to understand the shifting dynamics of church leadership. It provides practical advice and thought-provoking discussions that can aid in personal and professional growth.
Links To Listen:
About The Host: Glenn Packiam is a pastor and author dedicated to supporting church leaders. With years of experience in ministry, he is passionate about helping pastors thrive in their roles. Connect with Glenn Packiam on LinkedIn, Twitter, or visit his personal website.
4. Pastors Talk hosted by Jonathan Leeman and Mark Dever
Pastors Talk is a weekly podcast where Jonathan Leeman and Mark Dever engage in conversations about practical aspects of Christian life and pastoral ministry. The podcast aims to provide pastors with insights and guidance on various topics relevant to church leadership and spiritual growth.
What You'll Learn:
- Practical advice for pastoral ministry
- Discussions on the Christian life within the church context
- Insights from experienced church leaders
Why You Should Listen: This podcast is a valuable resource for pastors and church leaders seeking practical advice and insights. Each episode brings thoughtful discussions that can help listeners address challenges faced in their ministry and enhance their leadership skills.
Links To Listen:
About The Host: Jonathan Leeman and Mark Dever are both respected figures in the Christian community. Jonathan Leeman serves as the editorial director for 9Marks and has authored several books on church life. Mark Dever is the senior pastor of Capitol Hill Baptist Church in Washington, D.C., and a prominent leader in church revitalization. Together, they bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the podcast. Connect with Jonathan Leeman on Twitter and Mark Dever on Twitter.
5. Trench Talk hosted by Brian Croft and Jim Savastio
Trench Talk is a podcast dedicated to exploring the practical challenges faced by pastors. Hosted by Brian Croft and Jim Savastio, the podcast covers a wide range of topics, including the importance of Christian friendship, strategies for mending broken relationships within churches, and managing expectations. The discussions aim to equip pastors with the tools needed for effective ministry and relationship-building within their congregations.
What You'll Learn:
- Strategies for fostering effective ministry
- Insights on building genuine relationships with congregants
- Approaches to managing expectations and resolving conflicts
Why You Should Listen: This podcast offers practical advice and encouragement for pastors navigating the complexities of their roles. With a focus on real-world challenges, it provides actionable insights that can help pastors lead with integrity and wisdom.
Links To Listen:
About The Host: Brian Croft is a seasoned pastor and author who has dedicated his career to supporting fellow pastors through Practical Shepherding, a ministry focused on pastoral care. Jim Savastio, co-hosting alongside Brian, brings his own wealth of experience and insights into the discussions. Together, they address the practical aspects of pastoral ministry with empathy and expertise. Connect with Brian Croft on Twitter or visit the Practical Shepherding website.
6. Knowing Faith hosted by Jen Wilkin, JT English, and Kyle Worley
Knowing Faith explores the Christian story, belief, and practice in a way that is accessible to everyone. Hosted by Jen Wilkin, JT English, and Kyle Worley, the podcast engages listeners with thoughtful discussions on theology and the Bible, making complex concepts approachable for all levels of understanding.
What You'll Learn:
- Deep insights into theological concepts
- Understanding of Christian beliefs and practices
- Approachable discussions on biblical themes
Why You Should Listen: This podcast is ideal for anyone interested in deepening their understanding of Christianity. It offers engaging conversations that simplify complex theological ideas, making them accessible and meaningful to all listeners.
Links To Listen:
About The Host: Jen Wilkin, JT English, and Kyle Worley bring a wealth of experience and passion for teaching theology. Jen Wilkin is an author and Bible teacher known for her commitment to biblical literacy. JT English is a pastor and theologian with a focus on discipleship and education. Kyle Worley is a pastor and church leader dedicated to making theological education accessible. Together, they create a podcast that is both informative and engaging. Connect with Jen Wilkin on Twitter, JT English on Twitter, and Kyle Worley on Twitter.
7. Replicate: Making Disciples Podcast hosted by Robby Gallaty
Replicate: Making Disciples Podcast centers on equipping believers with the tools and practices essential for disciple-making. Robby Gallaty leads engaging discussions that focus on fostering spiritual growth and building a strong community of faith. Each episode is designed to inspire and guide listeners in their journey to become effective disciples.
What You'll Learn:
- Practical techniques for disciple-making
- Strategies to nurture spiritual growth
- Ways to build a thriving community of believers
Why You Should Listen: This podcast is a valuable resource for anyone eager to deepen their understanding of discipleship. It provides clear guidance and actionable strategies that can help listeners cultivate a more robust faith community. The insights shared in each episode are drawn from experienced leaders in the field of discipleship.
Links To Listen:
About The Host: Robby Gallaty is a pastor and author with a strong commitment to disciple-making. He serves as the senior pastor of Long Hollow Baptist Church and has authored several books on discipleship. His passion for nurturing spiritual growth is evident in his teachings and leadership. Connect with Robby Gallaty on Twitter or visit his personal website.
8. Soul Talks - hosted by Bill and Kristi Gaultiere
Soul Talks with Bill & Kristi Gaultiere is a podcast designed to support listeners in nurturing their relationship with Jesus. Hosted by Bill and Kristi Gaultiere, both Doctors of Psychology, the podcast offers insights into thriving in life, love, and leadership. Each episode explores ways to maintain a healthy soul amidst life's challenges.
What You'll Learn:
- Techniques for nurturing a relationship with Jesus
- Strategies for maintaining a healthy soul
- Insights on thriving in life, love, and leadership
Why You Should Listen: This podcast is a resource for anyone seeking to deepen their spiritual life and maintain emotional health. With practical advice and thoughtful discussions, the episodes provide a path to spiritual growth and emotional well-being.
Links To Listen:
About The Host: Bill Gaultiere is a psychologist and ordained pastor with a focus on ministry to pastors. Kristi Gaultiere is a psychotherapist and spiritual director. Together, they co-founded Soul Shepherding, a nonprofit ministry dedicated to supporting pastors and leaders. Connect with them through Soul Shepherding's website.
9. Pastor Matters hosted by Chuck Lawless & Caleb Iversen
Pastor Matters is a podcast that addresses the practical and pressing issues faced by pastors today. Hosted by Chuck Lawless and Caleb Iversen, the discussions focus on equipping church leaders with the tools and insights necessary to navigate the challenges of pastoral ministry effectively. Each episode provides valuable perspectives from experienced leaders in the field.
What You'll Learn:
- Practical advice for addressing pastoral challenges
- Insights into effective church leadership
- Perspectives from experienced ministry leaders
Why You Should Listen: This podcast is an essential resource for pastors and church leaders seeking guidance on the complexities of ministry. It offers practical solutions and thought-provoking discussions to help leaders grow in their roles and serve their communities better.
Links To Listen:
About The Host:
Dr. Chuck Lawless and Caleb Iversen bring seasoned pastoral insight and relational leadership to The Pastor Matters Podcast. Chuck, a veteran pastor, seminary professor, and dean, offers decades of teaching, preaching, and mentorship rooted in gospel-centered ministry. Caleb, a pastor and ministry leader currently serving in program leadership at the Center for Preaching and Pastoral Leadership, complements Chuck with a fresh pastoral voice and passion for discipling the next generation. Together they equip and encourage pastors and church leaders with practical wisdom and theological depth each week.
- Connect with Chuck on LinkedIn, X, or on his personal website.
- Connect with Caleb on LinkedIn,
10. The Grace Message hosted by Dr. Andrew Farley
The Grace Message is a podcast that explores Christian teachings and theology. Hosted by Dr. Andrew Farley, the podcast features a variety of formats including radio shows, messages, and interviews. The focus is on spreading the message of grace and providing insights into living a life rooted in Christian principles.
What You'll Learn:
- Insights into Christian teachings and theology
- Understanding the concept of grace in Christianity
- Practical applications of faith in daily life
Why You Should Listen: This podcast offers a deep dive into the heart of Christian theology, focusing on grace and its implications for believers. It's a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand their faith more deeply and live it out effectively.
Links To Listen:
About The Host: Dr. Andrew Farley is a pastor and author known for his commitment to sharing the message of grace. He is the lead pastor of The Grace Church in Lubbock, Texas, and has authored several best-selling books. His teachings focus on simplifying the message of the Gospel and encouraging believers to live in the freedom of grace. Connect with Dr. Andrew Farley on Twitter or visit his personal website.
11. Growing in Grace hosted by Mike Kapler and Joel Brueseke
Growing in Grace is a weekly podcast that features informal conversations focused on understanding the gospel and living in the freedom offered by Jesus Christ. Hosted by Mike Kapler and Joel Brueseke, the podcast aims to enlighten listeners about the grace and unconditional love of God, emphasizing the teachings of the New Covenant.
What You'll Learn:
- Insights into the gospel and the concept of grace
- Understanding the New Covenant in Christianity
- Ways to live in the freedom found in Jesus Christ
Why You Should Listen: This podcast is perfect for anyone who wants to deepen their understanding of God's grace and live a life of spiritual freedom. The engaging discussions provide valuable insights into Christian teachings, making them accessible and applicable to everyday life.
Links To Listen:
About The Host: Mike Kapler and Joel Brueseke are dedicated to spreading the message of grace through their teachings. Their combined experience and passion for the gospel shine through in each episode, offering listeners a deeper understanding of Christian faith. Connect with them through the Growing in Grace website.
12. Our Resolute Hope Podcast hosted by Pastor Frank Friedmann and John Russin
Our Resolute Hope Podcast explores themes of God's love and grace through weekly discussions. Hosted by Pastor Frank Friedmann and John Russin, the podcast aims to deepen listeners' understanding of Jesus Christ. Each episode invites reflection on faith, promoting a message of hope and reliance on Jesus as the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
What You'll Learn:
- Insights into God's love and grace
- Understanding of Christian teachings and spiritual growth
- Reflections on faith and relationship with Jesus Christ
Why You Should Listen: This podcast is perfect for anyone looking to deepen their faith and understanding of God's grace. Through engaging discussions, listeners are encouraged to reflect on their spiritual journey and strengthen their reliance on Jesus.
Links To Listen:
About The Host: Pastor Frank Friedmann and John Russin bring a wealth of experience and insight into their discussions on faith and spirituality. Pastor Frank is known for his dedication to spreading the message of hope and grace, while John complements the conversations with his unique perspective. Connect with them through the Our Resolute Hope website.
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