The Church Podcast

Episode 029 – Reboot: Combating The Issue Of Staff Turnover

Written by Christopher Wesley | Jun 10, 2025 10:45:34 AM

In this special Reboot edition, we revisit one of the most relevant and enduring challenges in ministry: staff turnover. Originally recorded as part of The Church Podcast with co-host John Rinaldo, this episode (#115)—first aired at the start of 2020—dives into the systemic and personal reasons why turnover remains one of the most pressing issues in the Church today.

Chris and John explore the deeper implications of high turnover rates, especially among younger ministry leaders, and ask tough questions about how parishes and dioceses can better support, invest in, and retain good people. Drawing from years of ministry experience, they break down the key causes of turnover—low pay, burnout, lack of clarity or purpose, toxic team culture, and inadequate leadership support.

They also offer tangible, pastoral strategies to combat the cycle of constant transition, such as:

  • Clarifying expectations and vision

  • Promoting a team-based (not siloed) staff culture

  • Prioritizing professional development

  • Modeling sustainable work habits

  • Encouraging ownership of the issue across the entire parish community

Whether you're a pastor, diocesan leader, or lay minister, this rebooted episode is a timely and challenging reminder: solving the turnover crisis requires all of us.

Enhance Your Listening with The Church Podcast + Subscription.

Dive deeper into your ministry journey with our premium subscriptions. Enjoy episodes your way, with added benefits to enrich your experience.

The Church Podcast + | $6/month

  • Ad-free episodes
  • Early access
  • Subscription to M2GO
  • Producer credits on video episodes
  • 10% off next custom t-shirt order from 4 Marks Printing

Subscribe Today

Elevate your podcast experience and support our mission to do church better. Visit thechurchpodcast.org and join our community of dedicated listeners.

Recorded on Riverside - HERE

A Little From Our Sponsors

SHOP SOCK RELIGIOUS: Evangelize with funny Catholic shirts and epic saint socks that you can buy at sockreligious.com. Use CHURCHPOD and get 10% off your purchase.

GET CUSTOM GEAR for your next ministry event from our partner 4 Marks Printing. They make ministry and evangelization easier! Visit 4marksprinting.com/churchpod for more.

MYM MERCH: Show off some humor and what you do with awesome t-shirts from Marathon Youth Ministry’s Store. Visit HERE to see what we have.