How to Make Your Church the Best Church in the World

Are you learning from great leaders, or simply copying them? In this episode of Leadership & Other Stuff, Pastor Brian Houston explores the difference between healthy imitation and losing your own identity as a leader. Drawing from decades of ministry experience, biblical principles, and personal stories, Pastor Brian unpacks the different types of imitators who can influence leadership, from those who learn from others to those who copy, compete, or seek personal gain.

In this episode, we dive into a highly anticipated Q&A with Pastors Brian and Bobbie Houston from the Excel Conference 2026 at Oceans Church in Orange County, California. They were interviewed by Pastors Mark and Rachelle Francey. Drawing from more than four decades of ministry experience, they share candid wisdom on building a lasting legacy, casting vision, developing people, taking risks of faith, navigating painful seasons, and staying faithful to your calling. Pastors Brian and Bobbie reflect on the journey of building Hillsong, the importance of creating environments where people can flourish, the power of living with an open hand, and what it means to lead through both the highs and lows. They also share deeply personal reflections on hardship, resilience, family, faith, worship, and what they hope their lives will ultimately be remembered for. Whether you lead in business, ministry, or the creative world, this conversation offers a powerful masterclass in vision, leadership, resilience, and faithfulness. 🔔 Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review. Leadership and Other Stuff with Brian Houston — equipping leaders and communicators with wisdom, faith, and practical tools for real-life impact. Subscribe to Leadership & Other Stuff with Brian Houston on YouTube. Support Our Ministry JesusFollowersTV: If you feel led to partner with us, your generosity will help us continue our work. Visit our Website: https://www.brianandbobbie.com/ If you would like Pastor Brian to speak at your church or conduct a Leadership Roundtable, you can send an email with your inquiry at [email protected] Connect with Us: https://www.brianandbobbie.com/contact

People are one of the greatest resources any organization can have, but are leaders truly stewarding them well? In this episode of Leadership & Other Stuff, Pastor Brian Houston explores the power of "Peoplenomics" and why people are essential to building something that lasts. From volunteers and creativity to community, talent, and financial resources, Pastor Brian shares how investing in people can create strength, momentum, and lasting impact. Drawing from decades of leadership experience, he challenges leaders to see people not simply as employees or numbers, but as a powerful resource capable of carrying vision and helping fulfill the mission. Invest in people, steward them well, and watch what can happen when people come together around a shared vision.

Offense rarely happens all at once. It often starts with a small hurt that, when left unaddressed, can grow into bitterness, isolation, and destructive decisions. In this episode of Leadership & Other Stuff, Pastor Brian Houston breaks down 15 steps in the progression of offense, from the initial wound to the point of separation and dislocation from God's purposes. Drawing from Scripture and decades of leadership experience, Pastor Brian explores how unresolved offense can distort our thinking, damage relationships, and ultimately take us off course. This candid conversation challenges leaders to recognize offense early, communicate before wounds take root, and choose forgiveness rather than allowing bitterness to control their future. Offenses will come. The question is what you do with them.

Healthy organizations are built by developing great people and addressing the behaviors that quietly undermine culture and momentum. In this episode of Leadership & Other Stuff, Pastor Brian Houston explores Paul's challenge to "not suffer fools gladly" and what it means to lead with both conviction and grace. Drawing from Scripture and decades of leadership experience, he shares practical insights on protecting your team's culture while being "wise as serpents and harmless as doves." From complacency and subtle undermining to pride, self-interest, and losing sight of the mission, Pastor Brian unpacks leadership behaviors that can derail any organization. This episode will equip you to lead with discernment, protect your culture, and build a team united around a common vision.