Transition Without Tension: A Roadmap for Passing the Pastoral Baton

Is your church ready to talk about leadership succession? In this episode, Elevate host Darrel Girardier sits down with Dr. Mike Glenn (Executive Director, Engaged Church Network and former Senior Pastor of Brentwood Baptist church) and Dr. Jay Strother (Senior Pastor, Brentwood Baptist) to share how their team approached one of the most delicate leadership changes in a church's life: the passing of the pastoral baton. They walk through what worked, what they’d do differently, and how to build a culture—and a process—that sets your church up for future faithfulness. Whether you're the outgoing pastor, the incoming leader, or someone supporting the transition, this honest conversation offers practical wisdom and encouragement. 👉 Learn more & register for Elevate Church Conference at elevatechurchconference.com Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome and Brentwood’s unique multi-campus model 03:35 – When Mike sensed it was time to transition 10:24 – Jay’s journey from student ministry to senior pastor 20:40 – Why healthy transitions start years in advance 26:45 – How to identify and encourage future leaders 34:22 – Building congregational trust with clear visuals 41:10 – Behind the scenes of Brentwood’s transition process 50:07 – Where to start if your church has no process 58:30 – Why pastors need something to “go to” not just “leave” 1:06:12 – Matching the new leader to the church’s DNA 1:12:55 – Helping staff adjust to a new leadership cadence 1:21:09 – What they’d both do differently Resources Mentioned: Preaching in a Post-Truth World by Dr. Mike Glenn Engage Church Network Brentwood Baptist Church Elevate Church Conference | September 9, 2025 Join us for the Elevate Church Conference at Brentwood Baptist in Nashville, TN. Learn from seasoned church leaders, grow your ministry team, and gain practical tools for your church’s next chapter. Register now at elevatechurchconference.com