Leadership & Other Stuff with Brian Houston
In this podcast, Pastor Brian Houston, founder of Hillsong Church, shares leadership lessons drawn from decades of ministry. He interviews prominent global church leaders like Joel Osteen, Rick Warren, and Andy Stanley. The show includes excerpts from Hillsong Conference leadership sessions and exclusive audio content. Formerly known as the Brian Houston Leadership Podcast, it has been a top-ranked religious podcast since its launch in July 2016.
Episodes
Apes, Parrots, and Pastors
Are you learning from great leaders, or simply copying them? In this episode of Leadership & Other Stuff, Pastor Brian Houston explores the difference between healthy imitation and losing your own identity as a leader. Drawing from decades of ministry experience, biblical principles, and personal stories, Pastor Brian unpacks the different types of imitators who can influence leadership, from thos
When Vision Becomes Legacy with Brian & Bobbie Houston
In this episode, we dive into a highly anticipated Q&A with Pastors Brian and Bobbie Houston from the Excel Conference 2026 at Oceans Church in Orange County, California. They were interviewed by Pastors Mark and Rachelle Francey. Drawing from more than four decades of ministry experience, they share candid wisdom on building a lasting legacy, casting vision, developing people, taking risks of fai
Peoplenomics
People are one of the greatest resources any organization can have, but are leaders truly stewarding them well? In this episode of Leadership & Other Stuff, Pastor Brian Houston explores the power of "Peoplenomics" and why people are essential to building something that lasts. From volunteers and creativity to community, talent, and financial resources, Pastor Brian shares how investing in people
The Anatomy of an Offense
Offense rarely happens all at once. It often starts with a small hurt that, when left unaddressed, can grow into bitterness, isolation, and destructive decisions. In this episode of Leadership & Other Stuff, Pastor Brian Houston breaks down 15 steps in the progression of offense, from the initial wound to the point of separation and dislocation from God's purposes. Drawing from Scripture and decad
Do Not Suffer Fools Gladly
Healthy organizations are built by developing great people and addressing the behaviors that quietly undermine culture and momentum. In this episode of Leadership & Other Stuff, Pastor Brian Houston explores Paul's challenge to "not suffer fools gladly" and what it means to lead with both conviction and grace. Drawing from Scripture and decades of leadership experience, he shares practical insight
The Leadership Lessons They Never Told You
Leadership isn't just about vision, growth, and success, it's also about navigating challenges that no classroom, textbook, or mentor can fully prepare you for. In this episode of Leadership & Other Stuff, Pastor Brian Houston shares seven hard-earned lessons learned through decades of leadership. From the pressure to compromise your convictions and the loneliness of difficult decisions, to handli
A True Leader Does Not Keep Count
Leadership comes with blessing, growth, and impact, but it also comes with hurt, betrayal, disappointment, and relational fallout. In this deeply personal episode of Leadership & Other Stuff, Pastor Brian Houston explores what it means to lead with a right spirit when people wound, misrepresent, or turn against you. Drawing from 2 Corinthians 5:19, he shares practical and spiritual insights on how
10 Things That Will Halt Progress in Any Organization
10 Things That Will Halt Progress in Any Organization Why do some organizations grow with momentum while others get stuck in frustration, confusion, and stagnation? In this episode of Leadership & Other Stuff, Pastor Brian Houston unpacks 10 common leadership traps that can quietly stop progress in any church, business, or organization. From endless meetings and indecision to bureaucracy, disuni
The Highs and Lows of Leadership
Leadership comes with incredible highs, but also real lows that few people talk about. In this episode of Leadership & Other Stuff, Pastor Brian Houston unpacks the discouragement, pressure, loneliness, and unmet expectations that often come with leading over time. Drawing from Psalm 142 and personal experience, he speaks to the moments when leaders feel overwhelmed, overlooked, and even like no o
Who's In Charge (Boards) Part 3
In Part 3 of this ongoing leadership series, Pastor Brian Houston continues the conversation on one of the most critical issues facing churches today: governance, authority, and the role of church boards. Drawing on more than five decades of ministry experience, Pastor Brian shares real-life examples of pastors removed by boards, churches thrown into crisis, and the often unseen dynamics that sh
Who's In Charge (Boards) Part 2
In Part 2 of this important leadership conversation, Pastor Brian Houston goes deeper into the question every church founder and senior pastor must wrestle with: Who is really in charge? Speaking directly to church planters, pioneers, and long-term lead pastors, Pastor Brian unpacks the warning signs of a church shifting from being board-governed to board-controlled. From curbing pastoral authorit
Who's In Charge (Boards) Part 1
In this episode of Leadership & Other Stuff, Pastor Brian Houston speaks directly to church founders, planters, senior pastors, and pioneers about one of the most critical, and often misunderstood areas of leadership: church governance and boards. Drawing from over 50 years of firsthand experience serving on boards, leading executives, and planting churches around the world, Brian asks a confronti
Seven Decisions with Generational Impact
In this episode of Leadership & Other Stuff with Brian Houston, Pastor Brian unpacks seven seemingly simple decisions that can shape not only your future, but the future of generations to come. Drawing from decades of leadership, ministry, and life experience, Pastor Brian challenges the idea that decisions are ever "small" when the consequences are great. Through the framework of Who, Where, What
There is Gold In Rebuke
Rebuke is rarely welcomed, but according to Scripture, it may be one of the greatest gifts a leader can give or receive. In this episode of Leadership & Other Stuff, Pastor Brian Houston tackles the often-avoided subject of rebuke and reveals why wise correction, received with an obedient ear, is pure gold. Drawing from Proverbs 25:12, decades of leadership experience, and personal stories from
Don't Just Live Saved. Live Called
Pastor David Blunt sits down with Pastor Brian Houston to unpack calling, resilience, marketplace ministry, forgiveness, and team building. Discover why you shouldn't just live saved. Live called. Learn how heart beats talent when building teams, why your work is worship in the marketplace, and how leaders can walk out forgiveness without carrying a wounded spirit. Brian also shares governance les
A Leader's Eyes
In this episode of Leadership & Other Stuff, Pastor Brian Houston explores the way leaders see and how their vision shapes everything they do. Drawing from Scripture, personal experiences, and timeless leadership lessons, Pastor Brian unpacks the importance of hindsight, foresight, and insight in guiding people and organizations. He explains why short-sighted decisions can limit growth, how foresi
How to Make Your Church the Best Church in the World
How to Make Your Church the Best Church in the World In this inspiring and deeply practical episode, Pastor Brian Houston shares timeless principles on what truly makes a church flourish—not from the top down, but from the inside out. Drawing on over 40 years of pastoral experience, Pastor Brian explores how every believer can actively contribute to creating a church that feels like the best churc
Ten Influences That Every Leader Needs
In this insightful and personal episode, Pastor Brian Houston unpacks ten powerful influences every leader needs to thrive, grow, and endure through the seasons of life and leadership. With a mix of biblical wisdom, personal stories, and decades of ministry experience, Pastor Brian shares the kinds of people and environments that shape a strong leader. From the importance of a mentor who truly bel
The Culture of Preaching and Teaching Part 2
In this follow-up to a powerful conversation on preaching and teaching culture, Pastor Brian Houston dives into Part 2 of the 30 foundational principles that shaped the communication culture at Hillsong Church. This episode is packed with practical wisdom for preachers, teachers, and communicators—from the importance of delivering messages with confidence and humility to understanding the balance
The Culture of Preaching and Teaching Part 1
In this insightful and practical episode, Pastor Brian Houston dives into the foundational culture of preaching and teaching that helped shape Hillsong Church over decades of ministry. Drawing from a landmark talk he once gave to his staff, Pastor Brian shares the first 15 of 30 principles that guided the platform at Hillsong — principles designed not only for his team, but for any communicator wa
Beautifully Boring
In this thought-provoking episode of Leadership & Other Stuff, Pastor Brian Houston unpacks what might be one of the most countercultural ideas in leadership today: the power of being beautifully boring. Drawing inspiration from Solomon's unexpected prayer for wisdom over wealth, fame, or power, Brian challenges leaders to reconsider what truly brings lasting influence and divine blessing. With
The Mindset Behind Enduring Ministry | Interview with Pastor Jonathan Shuttlesworth Part 3
In the powerful conclusion of Pastor Brian Houston's candid conversation with Pastor Jonathan Shuttlesworth, this episode dives into ministry, marriage, leadership, loyalty, and what it really takes to go the distance in both life and calling. From hilarious commentary to deep insights on building lasting ministry impact, this episode balances humor, honesty, and heart. Pastor Jonathan and Brian d
Building What Lasts: Vision, Loyalty & the Power of Belief | Interview with Pastor Jonathan Shuttlesworth Part 2
In Part 2 of this dynamic 3-part interview, Pastor Brian Houston continues his in-depth conversation with Pastor Jonathan Shuttlesworth offering rare insights into the mindset, moments, and ministry decisions that shaped one of the most influential church movements of our time. This episode goes far beyond surface-level leadership talk. Pastor Brian opens up about the internal shifts that change
Calling, Church Planting & Early Breakthroughs | Interview with Pastor Jonathan Shuttlesworth Part 1
In this powerful first installment of a special three-part interview on Leadership and Other Stuff with Brian Houston, Pastor Jonathan Shuttlesworth sits down with Pastor Brian for an unfiltered conversation about ministry, leadership, and what it truly means to obtain the promises of God. From receiving his call to ministry as a 5-year-old in New Zealand to planting churches across Australia, Pas
Pastor Humpty Part Two
In this powerful follow-up to last week's episode, Pastor Brian continues his honest reflection on what it means to fall—and what comes after. Using the Humpty Dumpty metaphor, he opens up about his own very public leadership failure, the personal and spiritual cost, and the journey toward healing. He shares candidly about the pain of isolation, the impact on his family, and the challenge of forgi
Pastor Humpty Part One
In this heartfelt and deeply personal episode of Leadership & Other Stuff, Pastor Brian Houston steps into vulnerability with raw honesty. Drawing from the nursery rhyme Humpty Dumpty, Pastor Brian unpacks what it means to fall—publicly, painfully, and as a leader. Pastor Brian shares lessons learned the hard way. He reflects on the fallout of failure: humiliation, the torture of what might have b
The Stressed Leader
In this deeply personal and practical episode, Pastor Brian Houston reflects on the inevitable pressures that come with leadership—and life itself. Drawing on Scripture, lived experience, and candid stories from his own journey, Pastor Brian unpacks what it means to be a stressed leader—and how to avoid becoming a distressed one. From embracing pressure to understanding your limits, identifying s
The Biggest Problem on Your Team
In this episode of Leadership & Other Stuff, Pastor Brian Houston takes us straight to the heart of one of the most overlooked but deeply rooted issues that can hinder any team—the sinful nature. Whether you're leading in ministry, business, or any collaborative environment, Pastor Brian breaks down why the greatest challenge facing your team isn't strategy, talent, or vision—it's us. Drawing from
The Insecure Leader
Welcome to the relaunch of my leadership podcast, now called "Leadership & Other Stuff with Brian Houston." In this relaunch episode, I discuss the impact of insecurity on leadership potential and practical ways to overcome these obstacles. In this episode, we cover: The story of King Saul and how his insecurity sabotaged his leadership. The traits of an insecure leader and how they can hinder su
Key Staff Message | Steal, Kill & Destroy
Brian Houston is the Senior Pastor of Hillsong Church. Our hope and prayer is that you'll be encouraged, blessed and inspired through these free podcasts. You can find more information and other resources by Pastor Brian at brianchouston.com
Leadership Vault | 10 Leadership Styles That Will Stall Your Momentum
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Leadership Through Psalms | The Leader's Uniqueness
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Key Staff | Seeing Like A Boss
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Leadership Through Psalms | The Leader's Willingness
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Leadership Vault | Loyalty Part 2
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Leadership Vault | Loyalty Part 1
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Key Staff | 7 Allures Of Success Part 2
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Key Staff | 7 Allures Of Success Part 1
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Leadership Through Psalms | A Leader's Bigness
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Key Staff | Seeing Like A Boss Part 2
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Key Staff | Seeing Like A Boss Part 1
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Leadership Vault | Living With The Future In Mind Part 2
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Leadership Vault | Living With The Future In Mind Part 1
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Key Staff | Leaderships Painful Days
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Leadership Through Psalms | Where Leadership Is Proven
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Key Staff | Rise Up And Lead
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Leadership Vault |10 Promises From God Directly To You Part 2
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Leadership Vault |10 Promises From God Directly To You Part 1
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Key Staff | 10 Church Culture Qualities That I Help Build Part 2
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Key Staff | 10 Church Culture Qualities That I Help Build Part 1
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Leadership Vault | Serving Others
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Leadership Through Psalms | Leadership And Power
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Key Staff | Leading With Discernment Part 2
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Key Staff | Leading With Discernment Part 1
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Leadership Through Psalms | A Leader's Speech
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Leadership Vault | Grace House Part 2
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Leadership Vault | Grace House Part 1
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Key Staff | 7 Things To Overcome In A COVID Season
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Leadership Through Psalms | The Leader's Beliefs
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Leadership Vault | Ten Influences Every Leader Needs
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Key Staff Message | Personal Leadership
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Leadership Through Psalms | Leadership And Overflow Part 2
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Leadership Through Psalms | Leadership And Overflow Part 1
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Key Staff Message | 7 Reasons Why We Exist
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Leadership Vault | When The Buck Stops
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Leadership Through Psalms | God's Promises To Leaders
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Key Staff | Who Is Your Teacher? Part 2
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Key Staff | Who Is Your Teacher? Part 1
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Leadership Vault | Isolating or Iso-Leading
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Let's Talk with Brian Houston And Bishop T.D. Jakes
A very special episode of Let's Talk with Brian Houston and Bishop T.D. Jakes as they speak honestly about the current awakening happening across the world to the injustice of racism. What can we do as individuals and as the church to be leaders in change?
Key Staff | Spiritual Wealth - Better Self - Mental Health Part 2
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Key Staff | Spiritual Wealth - Better Self - Mental Health Part 1
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Leadership Through Psalms | A Leader's Perception Of God
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Leadership Through Psalms | Leadership With Purpose
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Key Staff | Seasoned & Happy Part 2
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Key Staff | Seasoned & Happy Part 1
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Bonus Episode | Count It All Joy
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Leadership Through Psalms | The Christ-Centered Leader
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Wisdom Makes A Way Series Part 8 of 8
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Wisdom Makes A Way Series Part 7 of 8
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