About The Episode
In Part 1 of this two-part series, host David Hibiske is joined by Sean Morgan to discuss one of the most critical—and often overlooked—foundations of church planting: board governance. With decades of experience in church leadership and transitions, Sean unpacks why getting your board structure right from the start matters deeply for your mission and longevity as a planter. They explore the legal, spiritual, and practical aspects of governance, how to identify the right board members, and what Scripture does—and doesn’t—say about board roles. Whether you’re in pre-launch or year five, this episode offers key wisdom to help you build a healthy governance culture that supports your calling, avoids pitfalls, and cultivates unity.
Welcome to Episode 039 of The Unfair Advantage Podcast with David Hibiske.
Insights From Sean
- Governance Is a Mission Issue.
A well-structured board isn’t just about legal compliance—it’s a key part of accomplishing the mission God has given your church. Poor governance can stall momentum or even derail a plant. - Think Legal, Spiritual, and Practical.
Church boards must meet both legal (501c3 and state requirements) and spiritual standards (elders who are biblically qualified). Sean encourages planters to take time choosing board members who bring not only character and calling but also competency and chemistry. - Scripture Gives Qualifications, Not a Manual.
The New Testament outlines qualifications for elders but doesn’t prescribe a specific board structure. That freedom means planters must be intentional and wise in how they build and adapt their boards. - Start Small and Trustworthy.
In the early days, less is more. Don’t rush to add lots of board members. Choose people you trust—often from supporting churches or ministry networks—who will support your vision and speak truth with grace. - Beware of “Professional Board Members.”
Sean cautions against board members who only know how to get things done by being in control. You need influencers who empower others, not micro-managers who lack a team mindset. - Test Future Board Members First.
Before inviting someone onto the board, test them in smaller leadership roles. Give them a book or project to lead and see how they show up. A board seat shouldn’t be a first step—it’s a result of proven trust and alignment. - External Voices Bring Long-Term Value.
Don’t rush to transition to a fully internal board. External leaders bring perspective and experience that are often irreplaceable, especially when dealing with things like compensation, church rhythms, or big transitions. - Advocate for Rhythms of Care and Compensation.
Boards must be trained to care for the pastor. That includes regularly checking in personally and professionally, and reviewing compensation annually. If you’re having to advocate for yourself, the structure may be broken.
Episode Links
Do ministry together! Three gatherings, nine planters, one cohesive journey. Check out the Ascent Leader Church Planter Cohorts. Get more information today at: https://theascentleader.org/cohorts/
Who Is Sean Morgan?
Sean started out in ministry serving in a San Francisco area church plant as their Executive Pastor. He went on to help coach and consult with church leaders across the country and eventually founded The Ascent Leader, a first-of-its-kind organization focusing on relational leadership development for local church pastors. He also hosts the Leaders In Living Rooms podcast. Sean recently retired from a 26-year career as a KC-10 pilot in the US Air Force Reserve. His favorite titles are “Stacy’s husband” and “Kaylee and Ayden’s dad.”
Sponsors
Thanks to our sponsor: Generis.
A generous church is a healthy, growing church. So, if you’re ready to advance your mission, visit Generis.com/getstarted today!
Our goal with the Ascent Leader and our church planting cohorts is to help church planters win early and finish strong. We want to resource you so that you can avoid common pitfalls and simple mistakes. Being involved in a community of leaders like our church planting cohorts is one of the best ways to wrestle through these questions. We’re here to help you, if we can be of assistance to you please feel free to reach out.
Contact our team: ops@theascentleader.org
Subscribe now on your favorite podcast app
Take Your Leadership to New Heights
The Ascent equips you to lean into your God-given leadership potential.
Cohorts offer you the chance to go deeper with a small circle of peers and professional mentors so you can elevate your expertise and grow your confidence as a leader.
Learn more about upcoming cohorts by clicking below.