FHU Leadership Podcast

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews Eric Lyons, the director of Apologetics Press and FHU alum, on the importance of teaching Christian apologetics. They discuss what is apologetics, why it is important to teach, and how churches can go about doing such.

Dr. Josh Ketchum closes out this season with a brief review and some thoughts on how working deacons provide stability to the congregation.  If you are interested in getting a powerpoint from this lesson email him at jketchum@fhu.edu.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews FHU President David Shannon on his nine year tenure at FHU. He reflects back on some of the key moments of his tenure, his leadership philosophy and aims, and discusses his transition back to Mount Juliet Church of Christ.  President Shannon takes us behind the desk and into his heart in a vulnerable and authentic way of reflection.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews FHU alum Jeremy Burleson on being a new elder. He discusses his transition into that role, challenges, surprises, and his effort to prepare himself. Jeremy is enrolled in FHU’s graduate school of Theology certificate for Church Leaders in Counseling. Jeremy serves as an elder at the Spring Hill Church of Christ in Spring Hill, TN.  To learn more about the Certificate for Church Leaders click this link.   To access the Episode Guide for this episode email gradstudies@fhu.edu.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews FHU President David Shannon and Dean of the College of Bible Dr. Justin Rogers on a new program to encourage, educate, and equip church leaders. The program called ”The Shepherd’s Path” is in its developmental stages but promises to be a great opportunity for current and future elders to gain valuable experience as they work with a cohort for a two year period.  The website link is https://fhu.edu/academics/undergraduate/centers-of-excellence/the-shepherds-path/ For an Leader’s Episode Guide to use with groups for this episode email gradstudies@fhu.edu.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews Jon Paul Gulledge on a recent project he did with leaders from their congregation to develop their conviction, missional focus, and non-anxious presence. They defined their values and discussed harmful responses to challenging situations.  They discuss the leadership theory of Bowen Family System theory and its application to congregational settings.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews his mentor and friend Stan Dauck on long-term ministry and the challenges of serving both as an elder and minister at the same church. Stan has been preaching with the Bernie Church of Christ in Bernie, Missouri for 38 years serving as an elder for 18 of those years. Here is the Leadership Guide for this episode.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews Dr. Matthew Morine from the Castle Rock Church of Christ on the church’s vision. He discusses the minister’s role in promoting the vision and the importance of a vision for a congregation.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews Dr. Matthew Morine preacher at the Castle Rock Church of Christ on the value of reading for leaders. Matthew shares his reading tips along with his favorite books and lessons from them for leaders.  Here are the books he recommended.   Overcoming the Darkside of Leadership - by Gary McIntosh  Dear Chairman by Jeff Gramm Anti-fragile - by Nassim Taleb and Joe Ochman When the Center Does Not Hold by David Brubaker Making Shifts Without Making Waves - by Edward Hammett and James Pierce

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews FHU alum and preacher at the Maple Hill Church of Christ in Lebanon, TN on understanding church sizes and the transitions required by leadership. In this episode they discuss how churches can break size barriers for growth, how ministers and leaders must shift leadership philosophy in when changing size churches, and how transitions are challenging.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews long-time gospel preacher and interim minister Jerrie Barber on his experiences and wisdom with how to deal with conflict.  Jerrie share two books of which he and his wife Gail have written which can be found here.   Between Preachers - Jerrie Barber  Fleecy Clouds - Gail Barber Jerrie also has a weekly podcast that is exceptional. You can listen to it here or subscribe wherever you get your favorite podcasts.   It is call ”Gleaning Mustard Seeds”

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews FHU alum and current missionary-in-residence on the challenges of foreign mission work and what local leadership can do to support and encourage their missionary.

In this bonus episode we share Chris McCurley’s Dear Church Podcast which was released on December 4, 2025. In this episode Dr. Josh Ketchum, our normal host, is interviewed with his son Austin Ketchum about their new book: At His Table. The book contains 53 devotionals centered around the Lord’s Supper. It is designed for the worshipper to be able to use it to enrich their communion each Lord’s day.  Here is the link to the Dear Church Podcast so you can subscribe and follow this great podcast.   Here is the Amazon link to purchase the book.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews his good friend Mark Simons on the leading in the small church. Mark is an FHU alum and preacher at the Roan’s Creek Church of Christ. Mark discusses the strengths, challenges, and unique blessings that are available through the small church.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews Dr. Andrew Phillips about interpersonal communication. They discuss how to consider the story you are telling yourself and how to listen to the stories and statements of others. These skills are very valuable for church leaders.   Also you can email Josh Ketchum at jketchum@fhu.edu to be entered in his book drawing by Nov. 5, 2025.  To purchase a copy or learn about the book check out this link.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews Dr. Aarek Farmer in this episode. Dr. Farmer is an education professor at FHU and a minister and elder in the church. He discusses his involvement in the recent church plant in Arlington, TN.  He tells an exciting missional story of how the Great Oaks Church of Christ in Memphis area planted this new congregation.

Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews Dr. Andrew Phillips, a minister with the Graymere Church of Christ in Columbia, Tennessee on inductive versus deductive preaching outlines. Andrew explains the difference and how both types can be used effectively for the preaching of God’s word.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews business professor and tax accountant Dr. Brandon Lanciloti on what ministers should understand and know about tax issues.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews Dr. Brandon Lanciloti, business professor and tax accountant, on what churches should know about employee tax issues. They address forms, housing allowances, retirement, health insurance, and fraud issues.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews Dr. Andrew Itson, preaching and community engagement minister at the Madison Church of Christ in Madison, Alabama. They discuss the importance of churches intentionally and wisely engaging their communities to influence the community and win souls to Christ.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews Dr. Andrew Itson who serves as preaching and community engagement minister at the Madison Church of Christ in Madison, Alabama. In this episode they discuss the importance of church leaders leading themselves and what this practically involves.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum speaks with Dr. Rick Brumback on how church leaders should be intentional about organizing and developing their Bible School program. This is a good discussion ranging from curriculum to how to recruit teachers.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews Dale Jenkins of The Jenkins Institute on his new church growth book he recently released.  You can purchase the book at this link.   https://www.thejenkinsinstitute.com/shop/growing-healthy-church-the-8th-o-the-hidden-essential-to-church-growth-health

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum discusses with Dr. Matt Cook, Missions Professor at FHU, current religious demographics. They discuss the Pew Research study, Cooperative Election Study, and the book The Great Dechurching by Jim Davis and Michael Graham.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews Dr. Perry Hardin, missionary and Spanish professor at FHU, on how churches can think through and launch an hispanic outreach effort.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews FHU alum Dr. Jeremy Weekley on his recent church leadership research on an effective shepherding model. Dr. Weekley is the minister at the West End Church of Christ in Knoxville, TN.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum discusses with interim minister and longtime located preacher Jerrie Barber the challenges and blessings involved in retiring. This is a thought-provoking discussion on a topic most church leaders will face. How do they handle their retirement from work.  What challenges does it bring?  How can they use their new-found time in service to the Lord?

Dr. Justin Rogers continues his discussion with Dr. Josh Ketchum on the top ten leadership books. In this second part of the series they count down from 6-10.  6. Crucial Conversations - by Patterson, Grenny, McMillan, and Switzler 7. They Smell Like Sheep - by Lynn Anderson  8. The Culture Code - Daniel Coyle 9. Give and Take - by Adam Grant 10. How to Lead When You’re Not in Charge - by Clay Scroggins

Dean of the College of Bible at FHU Dr. Justin Rogers comes on the podcast to discuss his top ten favorite leadership books. This is a two part series. This episode discusses 1-5.   1. Leadership on the Line by Heifetz and Linsky 2. 7 Habits of Highly Effective People - by Stephen Covey 3. Start with Why - Simon Sinek 4. The Five Dysfunctions of a Team - Patrick Lencioni 5. The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John Maxwell

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews Vice-President T.J. Kirk on how he uses passion in his preaching and leadership. This is an insightful, authentic, and challenging conversation for preachers, teachers, and church leaders to consider.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum discusses with Dr. Mark Blackwelder the principles from Patrick Lencioni’s book, ”The Five Dysfunctions of a Team.” This is a helpful and challenging discussion for all church leadership teams to consider.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews and discusses with Dr. Brooks Tiller, an FHU Alumnus, on the pain and challenges of a divorce. They discuss how local church leaders and fellow men can walk with them through this pain and help them to remain faithful to the Lord.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews Kyle Butt who is completing his Doctorate of Ministry at FHU. Kyle shares his research findings from interviews conducted with former members of the Church of Christ who have moved to atheism or agnosticism.  The conversation is insightful for church leaders and ministers as we seek to address the doubts of church members in a faithful manner.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews Dr. Neil Richey, a Behavioral Health Professor and longtime minister, on how churches can better understand and minister to anxious people.

Host Josh Ketchum interviews Robert Hatfield, the minister at the Henderson Church of Christ and director of The Light Network.  The Light Network is a family of podcasts in their 11th year. The can be found at thelightnetwork.tv.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews Dr. Justin Rogers, Dean of the College of Bible at FHU, on the importance of vulnerability as a Christian leader.

Dr. Cook, a Bible and Missions Professor at FHU, joins the show today to discuss questions mission trip planners should ask in planning and developing their campaign.

Dr. Josh Ketchum discusses how to organize and function as church leaders so as to work as a cohesive team together for the work of the Lord.

In this final discussion Dr. Ketchum, Dr. Deweese, and Dr. Northrop discuss fatherhood. They focus on the role of being a father.  Discussing the concepts of intentionality, accountability, and mentoring.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews Dr. Joe Deweese and Dr. Jeremy Northrop in this three part series on biblical masculinity. In this second part they discuss how husbands and fathers can prioritize their time spent with family.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews Dr. Joe Deweese and Dr. Jeremy Northrop in this three part series on biblical masculinity. In this first part they discuss the current culture’s attack on masculinity and the great need for male leadership.

FHU President and gospel preacher David Shannon comes on the podcast this week to discuss how to maintain a healthy church body. This episode is insightful, very encouraging, and challenging.

Dr. Kevin Moore, missions professor at FHU, discusses with host Dr. Josh Ketchum about what to do after the short-term mission campaign.

Dr. Josh Ketchum introduces this year’s church leadership workshop planned for Sept. 27-28th at MSYC.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews retiring Bible Professor Dr. David Powell as he retires after 30 years of teaching at FHU. Dr. David Powell is a popular professor and preacher who has spent his life in service to the Lord. In this episode, he reflects on his time at FHU, advice he would give all of his previous students, as well as offering counsel to church leaders and preachers today.

Host Josh Ketchum interviews FHU Men’s Head Basketball Coach Drew Stutts after his NAIA Championship in 2024. They discuss the tournament run, leadership philosophy, culture, and how he motivates his players.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews Dr. Doug Burleson, on understanding Bible versions and their use in a congregational setting.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews Dr. Rick Brumback on how local congregations can assess their current works and develop a congregational vision of work for the future.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum discusses church leadership and church work with Ben Flatt who has more than 65 years of preaching experience. This is a rich interview filled with wonderful insights.

Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews Dr. Matt Cook on conducting transformational Bible classes in the local church. Dr. Cook discusses introductions that hook the audience and how to do discussion questions that make the text relevant.

Dr. Josh Ketchum discusses what makes for effective elders’ meetings. This involves the types of meetings and the benefits of having effective meetings.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews Dr. Westley Hazel on the importance and practice of family worship. We discuss how to do these and why they are important for the church leader’s family.

Westley Hazel joins host Josh Ketchum to discuss the church leader’s personal spiritual life. In a personal and vulnerable conversation Wes challenges leaders to consider their own relationship with the Lord. Wes serves as the preacher for the Forrest Park church of Christ in Valdosta, Georgia.

Host Josh Ketchum interviews Dr. Donnie DeBord on preventing missional fatigue and burnout as a Christian leader by focusing on an awe and love for God.

In this episode, Dr. Burleson who directs the FHU lectureship, discusses the value of the program for church leaders.

Dr. Josh Ketchum hosts students Isaiah Leininger and Timothy Secula to discuss a recent student experience in south Georgia. Four students went to the Welcome Hill Church of Christ and conducted a gospel meeting for them. Hunter Brockman and Caleb Hammond also went on the trip and Josh shares notes from their experiences. They share some lessons from the trip and give testimony to the importance of gaining experiences.

Dr. Ryan Fraser, a professor, counselor, and preacher, comes on the show to discuss the challenge of depression in the lives of church leaders. You can find his book on this topic at this Amazon link.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews College of Business Dean, Dr. Matt Vega on integrating faith into the workplace.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews Dr. Kevin Moore, Bible and Missions professor at FHU, about how church leadership when there are not qualified men to serve as elders and deacons. Dr. Moore examines scriptures and offers some great insights to congregational leadership possibilities and organization in these situations.

Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews FHU Biochemistry professor and Christian Apologist Dr. Joe DeWeese regarding his research and study of Adam and Eve. They discuss why trust in the Genesis account of creation matters and how science is offering evidence to support the Biblical claims.

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews Dr. Doug Burleson on a recent list he discovered of admirable qualities of religious leaders. This list is unique from what is often discussed or aimed at by religious leaders.  Here is the list originally posted on Twitter (@uk_timwilson): Traits of Religious Leaders I Admire: 1. Retiring with no drama 2. No desire to be a ”name” 3. Listen 4. Weak in human strength, strong in God’s (walk with a limp) 5. Stand for truth when it hurts 6. Have time for children 7. Treat women with respect 8. Preaching Jesus is plan A, B...and Z

Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews Minister-in-Residence and Graduate School of Theology professor Dr. Bruce McLarty on the topic of criticism.  They discuss the value of criticism and how to handle it as a church leader.

Host Josh Ketchum interviews former FHU President and current Chancellor Dr. Milton Sewell on how to connect with people as a leader. This insightful interview features lessons on providence, kindness, and empathy to everyone you meet.

Dr. Mark Blackwelder discusses with host Dr. Josh Ketchum how church leaders can better communicate with one another, other leaders in the church, and the congregation as a whole.

The fall ’23 semester season begins with FHU alumnus, Christian apologist, and debater Kyle Butt. Kyle discusses previous debates with atheists and discusses his upcoming debate on the existence of God. Finally, he discusses with host Dr. Josh Ketchum how and why Christians should defend their faith.

In this final episode of the Spring 23 semester, Dr. Josh Ketchum previews the fall church leadership workshop and gives a devotional thought about having compassion for the people we serve.

FHU Athletic Director and former Baseball coach Jonathan Estes comes on the podcast to discuss leadership through the lens of sports. Host Dr. Josh Ketchum interviews and discusses with him lessons from the sporting world that apply to leadership and to church work.

Biochemistry Professor and Christian Apologist Dr. Joe DeWeese is the featured guest to discuss the question ”Are science and the Bible in conflict?”.  Host Dr. Josh Ketchum explores the significance of this discussion with him from a spiritual and academic perspective.

In this episode Dr. Ketchum and Dr. DeBord discuss the authority elders. They discuss positional versus relational authority and how leaders should exercise their authority in a local congregation.

Dr. Ketchum and Dr. Burleson discuss 1 Timothy 5:22 and the danger of hastily appointing church leaders. They discuss the wisdom in knowing a man and his family before putting them into the office. Some of the dangers and harm that can come to both the family and the church are discussed.

Dr. Donnie DeBord discusses with Josh Ketchum the question all church leaders should be asking, ”Where are we going?” Dr. DeBord suggest the primary answer should be God and aimed at giving Him glory and honor. This should be seen in all aspects of the church.

Dr. Justin Rogers comes on the podcast to discuss with Josh his book on leadership entitled ”Courage 2 Lead.” The book covers a wide range of leadership topics and provides a valuable resource for church leaders to use both personally and in the Bible classroom. You can purchase the book at this link -- https://l2l.mybigcommerce.com/courage-2-lead/.

Missionary-in-Residence Daniel Gaines joins the podcast to discuss what missionaries wish church leaders knew with host Josh Ketchum.

Dr. Matt Cook comes on the podcast to discuss with host Josh Ketchum how to contextualize the gospel in our communities

Host Josh Ketchum interviews Dr. Mark Blackwelder, the Dean of the College of Bible at FHU, to discuss the Center for Excellence in Spiritual Leadership. They will discuss future plans for the Center and ways it will serve the local church.