Podcasts are one of my favorite things in the whole world. Perhaps it’s just the fact I can listen to them and do other things while they play in the background. Maybe it’s that I can dive deep into many different subjects in one afternoon. For a nerd like me, it’s like being given the keys to a Baskin-Robbins and freedom to sample anything and everything I’d like.

Whether it’s simply a direct recording of a sermon, or a more personality driven show with spiritual elements, or even simply a show that’s given me perspective I’ve applied to my life, “Christian” podcasts have an incredibly wide definition. 

I find the podcasts that draw me in are the ones that challenge me. The ones that present new ideas, or old ideas with substance. Often I’ll find that a good podcast has the ability to change my mind. But when I say change my mind, I don’t mean a shift 180 degrees (all the time). Often a good christian podcast affirms my belief but my mind changes on how or why I came to that belief.

1. StartUp

Church plants work like startups – and fail like them. Startup is 100% not a Christian podcast, but to anyone interested in the behind the scenes of church planting you’ll absolutely want to listen to this series. I found myself drawn into the pressure and struggles of pastors who care for people, but have to face the reality of ministry in the modern day.

2. Craig Groeschel Leadership Podcast 

Hosted by Pastor Craig Groeschel of Life.Church, the reach of this podcast is amazing. From Spiritual guidance for church leaders and pastors, to practical interviews for industry leaders the depth of information in this podcast is hard to match. A resource for my spiritual and professional life, I’ve been challenged and inspired by this podcast every time I listen.

3. All It Takes Is A Goal

All It Takes Is A Goal is hosted by Jon Acuff, author of Stuff Christians Like, and Start and Finish. He takes it to a new level with this podcast. While this isn’t a directly Christian podcast, it seems every episode changes my mind in small, effective ways on what it takes to achieve my goals. Jon’s humor and knowledge is unique and since it launched, I’ve not missed an episode.

4. Labeled

There are many great bands and their stories make their music better. If you want to dive into some of the deep tracks of “bands with Christians” in them, listen to Labeled. Focused on Tooth and Nail Records artists, the stories of bands I grew up with changed my mind on how I see the music I still love today.

5. Ask Pastor John

John Piper has a lot of wisdom. Agree or disagree with him, you have to admit his conclusions are well researched and to the point without missing the heart of the gospel. I’ve had my mind changed on many paths to convictions I held listening to him answer questions with more than simply emotional appeals.

6. You Have Permission

Hosted by Dan Koch (Of Sherwood), You Have Permission is a phenomenal podcast that has affirmed convictions, challenged beliefs, and simply sat with me in not knowing. I’ve loved Dan’s approach to balancing conversations with honest questions. So many good episodes have changed my mind, giving me permission to hold to my beliefs with the knowledge I’ve heard many sides and perspectives

7. BibleProject

The BibleProject is a one of a kind podcast. Well written, researched, and always inviting experts, it is one of the most knowledgeable Bible podcasts I’ve listened to. While I don’t agree with everything on this podcast I’ve definitely been challenged, especially during one of their latest episodes on the nature of God.

8. The Dr. John Delony Show

While not a Christian podcast, the Dr. John Show dives into relationships and mental health issues with believers and non-believers alike. From advice, to resources, I’ve found books, responses and new perspectives that have been so incredibly helpful to building and maintaining relationships.

9. Rainer on Leadership

If you are serving in church, this podcast can be a lifesaver. Trying to figure out how to be a good church member? I’d recommend this episode of Rainer on Leadership. Far from expecting pastor’s and staff to fix everything, this episode explores what it looks like to be a unifying church member.

10. The Holy Post

Ever wonder what Bob the Tomato is up to today? Podcasting. Hosted by Phil Vischer, this podcast dives into the latest Christian news and ideas with wit and with an understanding of Christian culture. I’ve really enjoyed and been challenged with the recent breakdowns on issues facing churches especially, “The Messy Call to Christian Unity” with Francis Chan.