Shows
StressTest : The Heartbeat of a Healthy LeaderHow to Stay Healthy Through Emotional Abuse | Dr. Nancy Meyer on Stress, Identity & HealingEmotional abuse doesn’t always show on the outside—but it can reshape your soul. In this honest, faith-filled episode, Dr. Nancy Meyer shares how to stay grounded when the wounds are invisible but real. From the trauma of losing custody to becoming an Ironman triathlete and writing Defying Fear, Nancy offers wisdom for staying spiritually and emotionally healthy even when life breaks you down. Whether you're in leadership or recovery, this conversation offers tools for healing, clarity for your journey, and strength to keep going. What We Cover: Recognizing subtle emotional abuse...2025-04-071h 07StressTest : The Heartbeat of a Healthy LeaderInsanely Practical Leadership with Stephen BlandinoIn this episode of Stress Test, hosts Shane and Sue Schlesman sit down with Stephen Blandino, author of Insanely Practical Leadership, to unpack the must-have skills every leader needs. Stephen delivers actionable insights on topics like personal growth, spiritual leadership, time management, decision-making, building influence, navigating conflict, and coaching others. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just stepping into leadership, this conversation offers practical strategies to help you lead with confidence and clarity—no fluff, just real-world advice. Ready to level up your leadership game? Tune in now! Don’t forget to subscribe for more leadership tips and insigh...2025-03-041h 01
StressTest : The Heartbeat of a Healthy LeaderCounseling Conversations: Personal Insights from Peter PinonJoin us for an insightful episode of 'Stress Test' featuring Peter Pinon, a licensed professional counselor with 14 years of experience. Peter shares his journey from growing up in a pastor's household to becoming a mental health coach specializing in counseling pastors. In this episode, Peter discusses the importance of love, connection, and competence, and offers practical advice for leaders on managing stress while maintaining mental and emotional health. Discover how to balance survival mode with thriving mode and learn strategies for maintaining authenticity and support in ministry. Don't miss this deep dive into mental wellness and leadership with Peter...2024-06-101h 08
StressTest : The Heartbeat of a Healthy LeaderOrdinary Angles for Extraordinary Stress with Dave StoneJoin hosts Shane and Sue Schlesman as they welcome Pastor Dave Stone. This episode dives deep into Dave's personal and professional journey, sharing insights from his 30-year ministry at Southeast Christian Church. Dave opens up about his struggles with workaholism, the pressures of leading a mega-church, and the transition to mentoring other pastors. He also shares touching stories of faith, leadership, and the importance of maintaining healthy rhythms in ministry. Special highlights include a discussion on the inspirational movie 'Ordinary Angels' and practical advice for pastors in transition. A must-watch for ministry leaders and anyone looking to be encouraged...2024-05-291h 02StressTest : The Heartbeat of a Healthy LeaderJeremy Lanning's Approach to Emotional Health and RecoveryJoin us in this enlightening episode as we dive deep into the world of mental health, stress management, and emotional well-being with guest expert Jeremy Lanning. Discover the importance of self-care, the art of navigating life's pressures, and the distinction between tension and stress. Jeremy shares his personal journey, from his military background to becoming a revered mental health professional, and offers invaluable insights on overcoming challenges, the significance of talking to oneself positively, and practical tips for anyone struggling with stress. Whether you're a pastor facing the unique stresses of ministry or anyone looking to find balance in...2024-05-141h 07
StressTest : The Heartbeat of a Healthy LeaderThe Blueprint for Living Authentically with Jacy Ángelle SmithIn this episode we are joined by Jacy Smith, founder of Thrivery, she shares her personal story of transformation, revealing how moving beyond expectations led her to a life filled with purpose and the empowerment of women worldwide. Get ready to be inspired and learn how to embrace your own path to authenticity and purpose. Connect with Jacy - @THRIVERY Thrivery - https://thrivery.life Transform the way you work, minister, & live. Before your stress kills your calling, your family, or you. Find the heartbeats for healthy living. https://Deathbypastoring.com ...2024-04-2946 min
StressTest : The Heartbeat of a Healthy LeaderFrom Stress to Strength: The Resilient Leadership of Kyle and Marcia BethkeDive into the inspiring journey of Kyle and Marcia, a dynamic duo balancing the complexities of ministry, family, and personal growth. Discover how they navigate leadership challenges, embrace change, and find strength in vulnerability. From the highs of expanding their reach through multisite churches to the lows of personal grief and leadership stress, Kyle and Marcia offer an honest look at the realities of pastoral life. Join us as they share valuable lessons on resilience, the power of authentic leadership, and the unbreakable bond of family within the ministry. Don't miss this deep dive into the lives of two...2024-04-1654 min
AVAIL PodcastEpisode 188: There’s Rest in the Stress with Shane and Sue SchlesmanChurch leaders are daily faced with a conundrum—numbers matter, but performance fixation is a recipe for burnout. On today’s episode of the AVAIL podcast, Pastors Shane and Sue Schlesman offer some wisdom from their new book, Death by Pastoring. Drawing from their own journey, Shane and Sue encourage all ministry leaders that Jesus never intended us to carry the weight of the church, but instead insists that there’s a better way.2024-04-0241 min
StressTest : The Heartbeat of a Healthy LeaderDeath by Pastoring Book Launch with Sam ChandSam Chand kicks off our book release by addressing the stress of unrealistic expectations, isolation and the weight of being the spouse of a pastor. Join us and find your partners for pain and celebration. Get the Book at: www.deathbypastoring.com2024-04-011h 04
StressTest : The Heartbeat of a Healthy LeaderCreating Rhythms in a Busy Life - Pastor Travis JonesWe are joined by Pastor Travis Jones of Motivation Church in Richmond, Va where he talks about how to create rhythms in a busy life and how to prioritize health over growth. Connect with Pastor Travis - https://www.motivation.church/about Thanks for tuning in to the Stress Test Podcast. Our mission is to help leaders navigate their stressors. From leading change and handling conflicts to safeguarding personal health, we delve deep into the realities leaders face daily. Rather than focusing solely on strategies, we value the power of...2024-03-1248 minStressTest : The Heartbeat of a Healthy LeaderFinding Relaxation and Restoration in Ministry: A special episode of Stress TestIn this special episode of Stress Test, the Pastor Shane offers his heartfelt advice for maintaining mental and spiritual health within high-stress roles in the ministry, relating it to his experiences with other ministry leaders. He emphasizes the importance of rest and restoration in the spiritual journey, referring to passages from Psalm 23 to illustrate the spiritual and practical implications. By letting the Lord shepherd us, we can find peace and regulative balance in our lives which will in turn flow into every aspect of our ministry work. The episode is an invitation to fellow ministry leaders and anyone battling...2024-02-2734 minStressTest : The Heartbeat of a Healthy LeaderTaking a Swing at Stress | Pete HiskeyIn this episode, we welcome golf enthusiast and family man Pete Hiskey. Pete discusses his experience with stress, both from a high-paced career in the golf industry as well as from his time serving in a ministry. He shares insights from his own journey seeking more balance in life, adopting healthy rhythms, and the importance of rest as part of self-care. We learn about his transition from a ministry setting to developing community initiatives through golf to reach countries worldwide with his 'Mulligan Ministry'. Pete also touches on implementing rest as an integral process in his mentorship program with...2024-02-0654 minStressTest : The Heartbeat of a Healthy LeaderFrom Feeding Stress to Finding RestEveryone is thinking about diet and exercise is important, but did you know that your stress levels are impacted by what you eat? In this episode nutritionist, Diana Walley discusses how to have a vibrant life style and diet that works with who you while feeding the rest you need. Where to Watch Stress Test : Subscribe to our Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@stresstest_podcast Follow us on Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/StressTestPodcast Where to Listen: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stresstest-the-heartbeat-of-a-healthy-leader/i...2024-01-221h 15
StressTest : The Heartbeat of a Healthy LeaderJourney of Faith: Impact of the Mission Field at HomeIn this compelling episode, Angela Donadio, renowned author, missionary, and podcast host, sits down for a deep conversation about the importance of stewarding our life stories. Angela discusses her experiences on the mission field and how it impacts her home life, personal growth and refocuses her perspective. The conversation dives into the essence of personal discipline, emotional resilience, and the importance of healthy relationships. Angela discusses adjusting to difficult global issues, fostering diversity of thought, and the value of empathy. She also encourages listeners to steward their pain effectively, suggesting pain can be a catalyst for purpose. The conversation...2024-01-2125 min
StressTest : The Heartbeat of a Healthy LeaderWorship in the Wilderness: Finding Purpose in Adversity w/ Angela Donadio Part 1In this soul-stirring conversation, Angela Donadio, accomplished pastor, worship leader, author, women's advocate, and podcaster, shares her transformational life experiences and insights. From the near-death experiences that dramatically shifted her life's trajectory to the significance of healthy rhythms in our daily lives, Angela delves deep into the themes of faith, obedience, worship, and resilience. She provides a candid look at the many challenges and triumphs of leading a church alongside her husband, managing her international ministries, and her ongoing personal growth. With a focus on maintaining a close relationship with the Lord, prioritizing self-care, and valuing every life season...2024-01-0830 min
StressTest : The Heartbeat of a Healthy LeaderLearning from Catastrophe: The Blandino Family on Processing StressIn the second part of this insightful conversation on the Stress Test Podcast, Stephen and Karen Blandino continue to share their experiences and valuable lessons learned from leading the Seven City Church and dealing with personal challenges. Stephen, a pastor, and Karen, a licensed professional counselor, use their knowledge and personal experiences to guide others through managing their stress amidst life's trials. They share the benefits of having coaches, the importance of counseling, and how leaning into gratitude during hardship can lead to growth. Further, they share their personal health battles and reflect on the beauty of community support...2023-12-2139 min
StressTest : The Heartbeat of a Healthy LeaderThe Power of Perspective: An Engaging Interview with Stephen and Karen BlandinoIn this episode of Stress Test, we welcome Stephen and Karen Blandino, two extraordinary leaders and founders of 7 City Church in Fort Worth, Texas. Stephen, a pastor, coach, and writer shares his passion for leadership training and personal growth, while Karen, a co-pastor and licensed counselor, shares insights about healing the brokenness in people. They also dive into the concept of ambiguous grief experienced post-pandemic, coping with unknown futures, and staying grounded in their life purpose. Tune in for an engaging discussion filled with wisdom, resilience, and the heartbeat of healthy leadership. 7 City Church Forth Worth, TX h...2023-12-1837 min
StressTest : The Heartbeat of a Healthy LeaderFrom Independence to Interdependence: Enhancing Leadership and Nurturing Souls in MinistryIn the second part of this compelling interview, Pastor Mark Zweifel from True North Church in Alaska, explores the importance of fostering a healthy, stress-managed culture in church leadership. Pastor Mark highlights the importance of personal, relational, and emotional health for church leaders and stresses the importance of empowering others in the church community. He shares insights about his leadership development strategies, such as staff reading and discussions, pastoral mentorship, and practical training allowing his team to experience hands-on ministry. Furthermore, he talks about his impact in Alaska's remote communities and how he nurtures future leaders. The podcast concludes...2023-11-1448 min
StressTest : The Heartbeat of a Healthy LeaderGrowing Pains: Managing stress while leading a church to 1500In this video, we interview Dr. Mark Zweifel, pastor of True North Church Alaska. We're discussing the challenges of growing a church, as well as strategies for managing stress while leading the church. If you're leading a church that's just starting out, or you're struggling to keep the church running despite being under pressure, then this video is for you! Dr. Zweifel provides practical advice on how to manage stress while growing the church to 1500 members! Dr Mark Zweifel True North Church: https://church.truenorthak.org/ 2023-11-0534 min
StressTest : The Heartbeat of a Healthy LeaderFrom Heart Attack to Healing: Shane and Sue's Story of Managing Leadership StressJoin Shane and Sue in this inspiring episode of "Stress Test: The Heartbeat of a Healthy Leader" as they share their personal journey of overcoming a heart attack and managing leadership stress. In this they discuss how stress affected their lives and how they underwent a transformational shift in their approach to everything. They also encourage viewers to take care of their physical health and not ignore warning signs that can lead to serious health issues. They also break down what it means to Rest at Work and how we can truly lean into rest to be better leaders.2023-10-1959 min
StressTest : The Heartbeat of a Healthy LeaderOvercoming Addiction and Embracing Vulnerability as a LeaderThis episode we are joined by Justin Franich as he shares his personal journey with overcoming addiction, the stress of leading a recovery ministry for 13 years and how vulnerability has shaped his leadership. ------------------- Thanks for tuning in to the Stress Test Podcast. Our mission is to help leaders navigate their stressors. From leading change and handling conflicts to safeguarding personal health, we delve deep into the realities leaders face daily. Rather than focusing solely on strategies, we value the power of authentic stories and shared experiences. Our goal is to pr...2023-10-0558 min
StressTest : The Heartbeat of a Healthy LeaderPastor!!! It's Okay to Ask for Help with Brittany JonesJoin us for an episode with Brittany Jones as she shares her personal experiences with mental health and provides some valuable encouragement for leaders around this important topic. Brittany Jones is a wife , mom of 2 beautiful girls and a sweet Goldendoodle. She is national speaker, writer and ministry leader at her local church. Brittany is passionate about seeing people live in freedom and wholeness as they heal from trauma and mental health struggles. In light of Brittanys personal story with childhood abuse and mental illness, she has a greater desire to encourage people on their journey. Brittany and her...2023-09-2245 min
StressTest : The Heartbeat of a Healthy Leader#010 - How to Find Space to Breathe Again in Your Busy Life | Tommy ThompsonIn this episode, we interview Tommy Thompson, author of the book SPACE TO BREATHE AGAIN. Tommy is a successful business leader who has learned the importance of finding space to breathe in his busy life. He shares his tips for dealing with stress, making time for yourself, and finding peace of mind. If you are feeling overwhelmed by stress and need to find some space to breathe, this episode is for you. Get Tommy's Book "Space to Breath Again" - https://tommythompson.org/space-to-breathe-again/2023-09-0755 min
StressTest : The Heartbeat of a Healthy Leader#009 - Overcoming Compartmentalization for a Unified Life with Mark MorrowJoin us as we welcome Mark Morrow, Pastor of Crosswalk Church, for an insightful discussion on the dangers of compartmentalizing our lives and the benefits of embracing integrated leadership. Discover how to unlock your full potential and lead a unified life with the guidance of an experienced pastor leader. Don't miss this opportunity to learn and grow together! Connect with Mark: https://www.crosswalk.cc/ ------------------- Thanks for tuning in to the Stress Test Podcast. Our mission is to help leaders navigate their stressors. F...2023-08-221h 08
StressTest : The Heartbeat of a Healthy Leader#008 - Balancing Acts: Nurturing Ministry Leadership and a Thriving Marriage | Brad and Heidi MitchellIn this episode, we're joined by renowned marriage experts Brad and Heidi Mitchell from Build Your Marriage, who share their invaluable insights on nurturing both ministry leadership and a thriving marriage. Together, we explore the delicate balance between leading in ministry and maintaining a healthy, fulfilling relationship with your spouse. Tune in as Brad and Heidi reveal practical tips, real-life experiences, and the key to harmoniously blending these two essential aspects of life. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from the experts and strengthen your marriage while excelling in your ministry leadership! Connect with Brad and Heidi2023-08-071h 02
StressTest : The Heartbeat of a Healthy Leader#007 - Maximizing Impact Under Stress - with Martijn van TilborghIn this compelling episode of the Stress Test Podcast, jShane and Sue as they sit down with the esteemed leadership expert, Martijn van Tilborgh. Delve into a thought-provoking conversation that explores the crucial topic of “Maximizing Impact Under Stress.” As a visionary thought leader and advocate for thriving in an ever-changing world, Martijn brings a unique blend of biblical insight, business acumen, and prophetic wisdom to the table. Throughout the episode, he shares his invaluable experiences and profound understanding of how to navigate the challenges that stress often presents in leadership roles. Thanks for t...2023-07-241h 00
StressTest : The Heartbeat of a Healthy Leader#006 - Embracing Sabbatical with Scott WilsonIn this enlightening episode, we joined again by Pastor Scott Willson from Ready, Set, Grow and delve into the importance of sabbaticals for pastors. Discover how taking a restorative break can recharge your spiritual battery, contribute to long-term ministry sustainability, and bring you closer to God. As leaders in spiritual communities, pastors often shoulder heavy responsibilities and need this critical time of renewal. Join us as we unpack the concept of the "pastoral sabbatical," discuss its benefits, and share practical steps on how to plan one. Don't forget to subscribe and share this wisdom with others in ministry who...2023-07-1154 min
StressTest : The Heartbeat of a Healthy Leader#005 - The Power of Maximums and Mentors with Arin NicholsonWelcome back to Stress Test! In this power-packed episode, hosts Shane and Sue Schlesman sit down with the dynamic Arin Nicholson from Potomac Youth Alive. Get ready to be inspired and learn some life-altering strategies that can revamp your everyday life! Arin is a Florida boy and graduate of Southeastern University where he met his wife Shauna Nicholson. He began his ministry in Chestertown Maryland at Hope Fellowship Church as the Student Ministries Pastor. Currently he is serving as the Youth Alive Missionary for the Potomac District and enjoying the married life with Shauna and their dog Nala. Second...2023-06-2653 min
StressTest : The Heartbeat of a Healthy Leader#004 - Three Powerful Words to Lower Your Stress - With Mark BattersonNYTimes bestseller Mark Batterson shares wisdom from his life and his newest book. "Please, Sorry, Thanks." By incorporating three words into our communication, we can improve our relationships and our mental health.By incorporating three words into our communication, we can improve our relationships and our mental health. Watch on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gh8JQnnFT-8 Learn More About Mark Batterson at : https://www.markbatterson.com/2023-06-1234 min
StressTest : The Heartbeat of a Healthy Leader#003 - Redefining Success with Justin and Trisha DavisWelcome to Stress Test! In this episode, Justin and Trisha discuss the importance of redefining success in leadership and how to establish a culture of healthy habits. They also talk about how to adjust expectations so that you don't keep rising to the occasion of performing rather than being authentic of who you are and God. Justin's most profound statement was "failure defines those that don't try again" and Trisha's was "allow your capacity to manage your ministry rather than your ministry to manage your capacity". We hope you're as encouraged by this episode as we are and that...2023-05-291h 04
StressTest : The Heartbeat of a Healthy Leader#002 - Steering through Stress with Scott WilsonScott shares compelling stories of leading through seasons of chaos in his professional and personal lives and gives us the key for staying grounded. Prefer to watch? Steering Through Stress with Scott Wilson Follow Strest Test Podcast on Social: Stress Test on Facebook Stress Test on Instagram 2023-05-1634 min
StressTest : The Heartbeat of a Healthy Leader#001 - Rediscovering the Lion in your Leadership with Sam ChandGo with us a on journey to find freedom from the negative impact of leadership stress! Our first guest, Dr. Sam Chand shares leadership lessons on how to better manage the stress of leadership. Every leader starts out as a lion, but over time that lion becomes a tamed house cat. Dr. Chand will bring the roar back into your leadership! Prefer to Watch: Rediscovering the Lion in Your Leadership with Sam Chand Follow Strest Test Podcast on Social: Stress Test on Facebook Stress Test on Instagram 2023-05-011h 04
West End Assembly of GodCan Jesus Really Satisfy Me? In this Mother's Day tag-team sermon, Sue and Shane Schlesman take a fresh look at the encounter of Jesus with the Samaritan woman at the well. In this story, it is revealed just how much Jesus really knows us, our past, our present circumstances, and our future potential. The woman at the well came to realize that Jesus was all she truly needed in life to be fully satisfied. How about you? Let's ask the question.If you had the chance to ask Jesus your one question... what would it be? Take this journey with us as...2020-05-1043 min