Host Steve Cuss welcomes Ben Mandrell, former president of Lifeway Resources and current senior pastor at Bellevue Baptist Church, for a rich conversation on leadership, faith, and resilience when things are good or in flux. Ben shares candid reflections on navigating cultural shifts, organizational challenges, and the personal cost of leadership amid institutional changes. From closing bookstores at Lifeway to finding joy and playfulness even amid tragedy, his journey reveals how presence and discernment sustain both leaders and communities. Steve and Ben explore the power of daily spiritual practices and small acts of connection that strengthen our relationships with God and one another.
Episode Resources:
- More about Ben Mandrell
- Learn about Bellevue Baptist Church
- Read about Ben Mandrell’s call to the Bellevue senior pastor role
- Read about the turbulent times at Lifeway Resources
- Watch Rick Warren’s address to the SBC in 2022
- Listen to the sermons of Adrian Rogers
- Explore the work of Mark Batterson
- Read Steve Cuss’ book: Managing Leadership Anxiety
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“Being Human with Steve Cuss” is a production of Christianity Today
Executive Produced by Erik Petrik and Mike Cosper
Senior Producer: Matt Stevens
Associate Producer: McKenzie Hill
Edited and mixed by Kevin Morris
Theme song by Dan Phelps
Original Music by Andy Gullahorn
