In this raw and encouraging conversation, Phil sits down with Jim Collins to talk about something we don't hear enough in ministry circles: failure. Jim shares his personal story of planting a church in Tennessee that didn’t go as planned—from launch dreams to a painful unraveling. But more than that, Jim reflects on the deeper lessons God taught him about leadership, calling, submission, and identity through that hard season.

Whether you’re a young leader eager to launch or a seasoned pastor navigating burnout or regret, this episode is a grace-filled reminder that failure isn’t fatal—and God is never done shaping us.

Key Topics Covered:

• The danger of launching without spiritual counsel
• How pride and ambition can masquerade as calling
• The difference between modeling and copying a ministry
• Why slowing down is not the same as disobedience
• What it looks like to find your identity after ministry “failure”
• Leadership lessons from real-world pain
• The importance of submitting to authority before leading others

Key Quotes:

In this episode of Ministry Mix, Phil and Richard ready up to bring you a Fortnite-themedguide to real ministry leadership. Whether you’ve built your share of ramps or have no idea what a "Loot Llama" is, this episode is for you.

What can Fortnite teach us about ministry? Turns out—a lot.

From failed solo pushes to sweaty wins and unexpected healing stations, we share 5 (plus a few bonus) leadership lessons that apply just as well to church planting and ministry teams as they do to Battle Royale:

• Don't lead alone – Ministry is better in squads.
• Winning teams talk – Clear communication changes everything.
• Adapt or lose – The game (and culture) is always changing.
• Have fun – Joy is a ministry essential, not a luxury.
• Better with friends – Celebrate wins and survive losses together.

Yes, we talk lightsabers. Yes, Richard got yelled at for playing until 3am. But we also hit on real, practical ministry advice.

Key Quote:
"If you're doing ministry alone, no one's there to revive you when you go down—and no one's there to celebrate you when you win."

If this episode made you laugh, challenged how you lead, or made you want to jump in a squad, leave us a review and share it.

In this episode of the Ministry Mix Podcast, Phil and Richard dive into a practical conversation for anyone sensing a call to ministry. Whether you’re a high school student, a mid-career professional, or already serving in a church, this episode outlines six clear and biblical steps you can take right now to discern and develop your calling—before you ever get a position or a platform.

You’ll hear about:

• Why character must come before competency
• How lingering and showing up consistently can shape your future ministry
• The importance of being teachable and asking the right questions
• Why reading your Bible and submitting to discipleship is non-negotiable
• How your local church plays a central role in affirming your call
• And why “don't wait for a stage—start with a broom” might be your next best step

This episode is packed with personal stories, pastoral wisdom, and helpful pushback for those navigating early ministry aspirations. Whether you're mentoring someone or starting to explore a call yourself, this is a must-listen guide to spiritual formation and practical readiness.

Key Quote:
"A call to ministry isn’t a call to perform—it’s a call to be faithful. And faithfulness starts long before a microphone."

If this episode was helpful, share it with someone considering ministry leadership. And don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and connect with us in our Facebook group for pastors and ministry leaders!