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When was the last time you truly listened—not just to respond, but to understand?

In this episode of The Glass House, Ben and Lynley Mandrell explore one of the most undervalued yet essential skills in ministry leadership: listening. Whether you're navigating staff dynamics, leading small groups, or caring for your congregation, your ability to listen well can make or break your effectiveness as a leader.

Ben and Lynley unpack the challenges of one-sided conversations, the power of emotional intelligence, and why self-awareness is key to becoming a better communicator. They also discuss the often-avoided topic of confrontation, encouraging leaders to embrace it in a constructive, grace-filled way. Finally, they offer practical advice on how to seek honest feedback to grow in communication and relational leadership.

This conversation is a must-listen for any ministry leader who wants to build healthier teams, deeper relationships, and a more effective leadership presence through the simple—but powerful—act of listening.

If this episode resonated with you, be sure to rate, review, and share the podcast with another ministry leader in your circle. Listening well is a lifelong journey, and we’re in it together.

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Why Don't We Listen Better

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Before we can lead others effectively, we have to learn how to lead ourselves. Are you paying attention to the habits, rhythms, and decisions that shape your personal leadership?

We’re continuing our 10 & 10 Summer Series, where Ben dives into a leadership topic for 10 minutes and Lynley follows with 10 minutes of thoughtful, honest commentary from her perspective.

In this episode, Ben and Lynley explore the vital topic of self-leadership—the often-overlooked but foundational skill that impacts every area of our lives. They unpack four categories of activity that leaders typically engage in and challenge listeners to evaluate how they spend their time. The conversation encourages leaders to identify both strengths and weaknesses, making space for personal growth and greater alignment with their calling.

Together, they reflect on how to balance the demands of ministry with personal passions, and how leaning into your God-given wiring can lead to more joy and effectiveness in your work. Whether you're running on empty or ready for a refresh, this episode is packed with perspective to help you thrive—not just survive—in your leadership. If this conversation challenged or encouraged you, we’d love it if you’d rate, review, and share the podcast with your team or another ministry leader. And don’t miss the next episode in our 10 & 10 series—where leadership gets real, and so do we.

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Four Thousand Weeks

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In this episode of The Glass House, Ben and Lynley Mandrell dive into the power of preparation—especially when it comes to shaping the environments we lead in. Whether you're welcoming a new staff member, greeting a church guest, or hosting a team event, the atmosphere you create speaks volumes.

Ben & Lynley unpack why first impressions matter and how intentional details—big or small—can leave a lasting impact. They discuss the tension between thoughtful experiences and branding strategies, pointing to the deeper calling of hospitality as a reflection of care and mission.

Listeners will walk away with practical insights on how to:

• Cultivate welcoming spaces for both visitors and teams
• Align preparation with purpose, not just performance
• Make every interaction feel personal, memorable, and mission-driven

If you’re leading in ministry, business, or your own home, this conversation will encourage you to think more intentionally about how preparation sets the tone for transformation.