LEADERSHIP TRAINING EVENT

Branches Church
1601 W Malvern Avenue
Fullerton CA 92833

10AM - 2PM
FREE (including lunch) for Members. $35 for non-members.

"Overcoming the Dark Side of Leadership" is a focused training seminar designed for pastors, church leaders, and leadership teams who desire healthier, more sustainable leadership. Drawing from the work of McIntosh and Rima, the seminar explores the hidden inner drives, wounds, and compulsions that often fuel both leadership success and failure. Participants will examine the nature and origins of the “dark side,” learning how early experiences and unmet needs shape leadership behavior. The training identifies five common dysfunctional leadership patterns—Compulsive, Narcissistic, Paranoid, Codependent, and Passive-Aggressive—and helps leaders recognize their own tendencies, especially under stress. Emphasis is placed on redeeming the dark side through self-awareness, realistic expectations, spiritual formation, and grounding identity in Christ. Through teaching, guided reflection, discussion, and practical application, leaders will develop tools for ongoing awareness, accountability, and personal transformation. The goal is leadership that endures—marked by humility, emotional health, and grace rather than burnout or breakdown.

———————————

Gary L. McIntosh is a prominent figure in the field of church growth and pastoral ministry, having authored numerous books and articles on the subject. His work focuses on practical and strategic approaches to helping churches expand and thrive. McIntosh's writings emphasize principles of healthy leadership, effective outreach, and creating environments where people can grow in their faith.

He serves as distinguished affiliate professor of Christian Ministry and Leadership at Talbot School of Theology, Biola University. He is a professor in the Talbot Doctor of Ministry program, where he leads the Growing and Multiplying Churches cohort and serves as a dissertation mentor.

A key theme in McIntosh's work is the concept of intentional growth, suggesting that churches can develop and flourish by engaging their communities, equipping their members, and adapting to changing cultural landscapes. He also emphasizes the importance of understanding the unique characteristics and needs of a local congregation when formulating growth strategies.

McIntosh is known for providing practical and actionable insights, often drawing from his extensive experience in church consulting and leadership development. His work aims to equip church leaders with the tools and knowledge needed to foster growth, deepen spiritual impact, and create vibrant, healthy church communities.

Overall, Gary McIntosh's contributions to the field of church growth emphasize the significance of intentional, strategic approaches that are firmly rooted in a deep understanding of the dynamics of church life and the needs of the people they serve.

Dr. McIntosh has forty-three years of experience consulting non-profit organizations, coaching of leaders, and seminar presentations. He has analyzed numerous churches representing some 90+ denominations throughout the United States, Canada, Australia and Southeast Asia.

Gary and his wife, Carol, reside in Temecula, CA. They have two grown sons, nine grandchildren, and four great grandchildren. Dr. McIntosh is available for speaking, teaching, or consulting. For information, and to register to receive his leadership newsletter Ready, Set, Grow! see www.churchgrowthnetwork.com

X: drgmcintosh
YouTube: GaryLMcIntosh
Instagram: garymcintosh1

Register