Shows
The Connected MomThe Heart of Parenting: Teaching Kids About GodGet you copy of Cultivating a Deeper Connection in a Lonely WorldIn this episode of the Connected Mom podcast, host Becky Harling engages with Sue Schlesman, co-author of the Compassion Storybook Bible. They discuss the importance of teaching children about God's compassion, understanding sin and grace, and the role of empathy and peacemaking in family dynamics. The conversation emphasizes the need for intentional parenting and the significance of explaining spiritual concepts in a simple, relatable manner. They also touch on the idea of heaven and how to help children understand it without fear. The episode...
2025-11-1332 min
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 07
A Woman’s Heart with Lisa GrangerSue Schlesman: Breaking Free From The Prison Of PerfectionismHave you ever struggled with perfectionism? You feel like if you can get everything “just right” you can avoid any unpleasantness and everyone will love you. The problem is you end up weighed down and exhausted. Author and speaker Sue Schlesman has battled perfectionism in many areas of life. We dive into the struggle of perfectionism—how it takes hold of our hearts, fuels comparison, and steals our joy. Together, we explore the difference between excellence and perfection, how Biblical perfection differs from the pressure of worldly perfectionism, and why our motivation is the key to detection.
Sue Schles...
2025-04-0132 minStressTest : 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 insights, and le...
2025-03-041h 01
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 02
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 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 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 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 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#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 Heidi
2023-08-071h 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 f...
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
The Walk with John I. SnyderPraying Change into Unexpected Places: A Conversation with Sue SchlesmanToday, we're talking with Sue Schlesman, a Christian author, speaker, blogger, teacher, and pastor's wife. Sue has a passion for missions, social justice, traveling, writing, reading, and the local church. In today's episode, we're discussing her new, award-winning book, Soulspeak: Praying Change into Unexpected Places, and discuss Sue's faith story, the importance of prayer, understanding spiritual warfare, and much more. You can read more about Sue and order Soulspeak at sueschlesman.com.
2020-11-1125 min
Make Life MatterPray Change into Unexpected Places with Author Sue Schlesman (Ep. 23)“Prayer is the best possible therapy you can have.” Sue Schlesman is a Christian author, speaker, English teacher, and pastor’s wife with a BA in Creative Writing and a Master’s in Theology & Culture. As she shares about her insightful book, Soulspeak: Praying change into unexpected places, and a traumatic personal experience, you will be encouraged to lean into God, trust His goodness, and look for “back-door” miracles. You can find her writing about life, education, family, and Jesus at www.sueschlesman.com.
2020-07-0726 min
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 minWest 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
The Grace FrontierSoul Speak: Praying Change into Unexpected Places with Guest Sue SchlesmanOne of my favorite Christmas songs is “O Holy Night.” As we celebrate the Light of the World at this time of year, I’m reminded we don’t have to wait for a special occasion or a crisis to speak with God. Prayer is always available to us. Sue Schlesman reminds us of this in her book, “Soul Speak: Praying Change into Unexpected Places.”Join us for a wonderful discussion of how prayer changes us as our soul speaks with God.Listen in and let us know whose thoughts you lean more towards...we’d love to hear from you at our new...
2019-12-1225 min
Past to Power PodcastSoul Speak: Praying Change into Unexpected Places with Guest Sue SchlesmanOne of my favorite Christmas songs is “O Holy Night.” As we celebrate the Light of the World at this time of year, I’m reminded we don’t have to wait for a special occasion or a crisis to speak with God. Prayer is always available to us. Sue Schlesman reminds us of this in her book, “Soul Speak: Praying Change into Unexpected Places.”
Join us for a wonderful discussion of how prayer changes us as our soul speaks with God.
Listen in and let us know whose thoughts you lean more towards...we’d love to hear from you at our new...
2019-12-1225 min