The biggest lie a lot of church planters believe is that they have to figure everything out by themselves.

You don't. And you shouldn't.

In Episode 4 of The Urban Pastor Podcast, Charlie Mitchell shares why friendship isn't optional for church planters, pastors, and ministry leaders navigating the pressures of urban ministry.

It starts with an unexpected phone call from someone he met at a conference. Months after exchanging numbers, that person called him out for never reaching out.

That conversation became a lasting friendship—and a reminder that some of the most important relationships in ministry begin when someone decides to show up.

Drawing from his journey from Harlem Heights to Baltimore and back to Southwest Florida, Charlie shares the relationships that helped him clarify his calling, navigate disappointment, care for his soul, and keep going.

What You'll Learn

1. You need OGs who can tell you the truth.

Experienced leaders who understand the city, know its history, and aren't afraid to challenge your assumptions.

Charlie shares how seasoned pastors helped him think beyond his original church planting plans and how Matt Stephens challenged his understanding of Baltimore before taking him on a spiritual tour of the city.

2. You need friends who remind you to take care of yourself.

Church planting can consume your life if you let it.

After moving from Florida to Baltimore in the middle of winter, Charlie found himself questioning whether he'd made a mistake. Pastor Mike Crawford helped him recognize what he was experiencing and encouraged him to give himself time.

Sometimes the most spiritual thing a friend can do is ask how you're really doing.

3. You need friends who can laugh, cry, and get angry with you.

Not every relationship needs to be professional.

Charlie reflects on his friendship and partnership with Trevor, co-founder of Epiphany Baltimore, and why pastors need people who can be honest, advocate for one another, and share the everyday realities of ministry without pretending.

4. You need friends who have no skin in your game.

People who aren't depending on your church's attendance, budget, reputation, or success.

Friends who knew you before the titles. Friends who know your story, your family, your failures, and your humanity.

People who love you whether your ministry succeeds or struggles.

The Bigger Conversation

In this episode, Charlie also explores why the isolated-leader model can be damaging, how relationships help clarify a church planter's calling, and why Maroon House exists to create community, coaching, and care for urban ministry leaders.

The Bottom Line

You weren't called to figure everything out alone.

Find people who will challenge you, care for you, walk through the trenches with you, and remind you that you're a human being before you're a ministry leader.

Connect and Explore

Explore Maroon House:
https://bemaroon.com

Urban church planting resources:
https://bemaroon.com/urban-church-planting

Connect with Charlie Mitchell:
https://charliemitchell.me

About The Urban Pastor

The Urban Pastor explores faith, culture, cities, and real life through honest conversations about urban ministry, healthy leadership, and the communities we're called to serve.

Hosted by Charlie Mitchell.

No one changes a city alone.