On this episode of the Elevate Podcast, Truett Ross hosts a conversation with Alec Beard and Amy-Jo Girardier about one of the most critical aspects of church leadership: developing healthy group leaders who can multiply your ministry’s impact.

A strong small group ministry isn’t just about gathering people—it’s about fostering environments where authentic discipleship happens. Our guests unpack the essential ingredients that make group leaders thrive, from soul care practices to practical training approaches.

One key insight is the distinction between filling leadership gaps with “warm bodies” versus intentionally developing the right leaders. Amy-Jo points out that hastily placing people in leadership positions without proper discernment and preparation can lead to toxic dynamics and group dysfunction.

Alec addresses the common confusion between calling and competency that prevents many potential leaders from stepping forward. He shares strategies for helping people recognize their leadership capacity and overcome the “willingness obstacle” that often stands in their way.

The conversation includes specific soul care resources for leaders and compelling stories of transformation when the right leader is placed in the right group. The guests outline concrete steps for creating a sustainable leadership pipeline: from clarifying vision through leadership covenants, to implementing check-in systems, to celebrating growth regularly.

Meet the Speakers

• Truett Ross: Groups and Care Minister at the West Franklin Campus. Truett brings multi-campus experience through his work at Avenue South and now West Franklin. Follow Truett on Instagram. 
• Amy-Jo Girardier: Women’s Minister at the Brentwood Campus for 23 years. Amy-Jo oversees women’s leaders and volunteers, previously serving in student ministry. Follow Amy-Jo on Instagram. 
• Alec Beard: Oversees small groups and missions at the Lockeland Springs Campus in East Nashville, navigating the unique dynamics of a smaller, more transient church community. Follow Alec on Instagram. 

Topics Discussed in This Episode

• 0:00 – Introduction to investing in healthy group leaders
• 2:00 – Identifying the biggest gaps in group leadership development
• 5:54 – Why developing leaders matters more than simply launching more groups
• 8:27 – Soul care resources for group leaders to prevent burnout
• 11:36 – Real examples of the right leader making a difference
• 17:27 – Essential characteristics to look for when identifying potential leaders
• 19:39 – Non-negotiables for training and equipping new leaders
• 24:47 – Effective methods for checking in with and encouraging leaders
• 30:01 – Creating a culture of leadership development within your church
• 34:20 – Building layers of leadership and delegating care to team members
• 40:41 – Practical first steps to strengthen your leadership pipeline
• 47:50 – Lessons learned about leadership development

Resources Mentioned

• Dwell Scripture App: A scripture listening resource provided to leaders
• Soul Care assessment resources: soulcare.com for identifying burnout in leaders
• The Five Gs framework: Give, Go, Groups, Gather, Gospel Conversations
• Leadership Covenant: A formal document setting expectations for group leaders