Episode 99 - Succession Planning for the Ministry You Love (featuring Robin Fuller)
Stories of what now, and what’s next.
There is Life After Ministry.
Why is it so hard to let go of a ministry you love before something forces the decision?
Robin Fuller knows firsthand. After more than 23 years in pregnancy center ministry, she burned out and heard that only about 10 percent of ministry leaders finish well.
She decided to be part of that 10 percent. Robin lifted the mantle off her shoulders in front of her board and walked through a four-year succession plan that started with a simple "Things I Do" document.
Matt and Robin talk about why founders struggle most, how a poverty mindset keeps leaders in the seat too long, and why outgoing leaders need to step away for at least six months. Robin also shares her new book, Finish Well: Succession Planning for the Ministry You Love.
Key Takeaways
1. Succession starts long before you leave. Robin spent four years working with her board so the ministry could continue without a blip.
2. Write down what you actually do. A simple "Things I Do" list shows what to release, what to delegate, and what the next leader will need.
3. Know what will be missing when you are gone. Robin knew finances were not her gift, so she looked for a successor who was strong where she was not.
4. Pay and plan for your people. Fair pay and retirement planning keep leaders from staying too long just because they cannot afford to leave.
5. Give your successor room. Robin now encourages every outgoing leader to stay away for at least six months and to hand pride back to the Lord.
Chapter Markers
00:00 - Why Letting Go Is So Hard
Robin's story, burnout, and why only about 10 percent of ministry leaders finish well.
06:58 - The "Things I Do" Document
The simple list that showed Robin what to release and how to restructure her role.
12:10 - Why Leaders Stay Too Long
Founders, the poverty mindset, and building a healthy compensation philosophy.
20:19 - Stepping Away Well
The six-month rule, keeping staff through the handoff, and wrestling with pride.
27:30 - Finish Well: The Book
Twelve practical steps for ministry leaders and boards, plus Robin's masterminds.
Resources
If you are navigating a ministry transition, visit Ministry Transitions to explore resources or start a confidential conversation.
Get Robin Fuller's book Finish Well: Succession Planning for the Ministry You Love and learn about her coaching and succession planning mastermind groups at robinfuller.coach. The book is also available on Amazon.
Connect with Robin on Facebook and LinkedIn.
Music licensed through Soundstripe.
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