FCLP 10 | How to Use Feedback to Your Advantage (Even When It Feels Risky)

In this skill-building episode of the Female Church Leaders Podcast, Kadi Cole unpacks why feedback feels risky - and why avoiding it quietly limits leadership growth. Drawing from research and personal experience, she explains how specific, forward-facing feedback accelerates competency and builds lasting confidence.You’ll learn how to ask for actionable input without undermining yourself, how to evaluate performance with sober judgment instead of emotion, and how to give feedback that strengthens others using simple, practical language. If you want to grow beyond instinct and into intentional development, this episode gives you tools you can apply immediately.TIMESTAMPS01:00 - Why we avoid constructive feedback 01:40 - The difference between vague praise and actionable feedback 02:10 - How to ask for specific feedback06:10 - Using annual performance reviews for growth 07:30 - Giving feedback as a leader 08:45 - Action steps: Ask for and give forward-facing feedback Resources mentioned:Theological Cheat Sheet -  kadicole.com/theologicalNext Steps and Resources:Take the Quiz: Identify your growth gap with our Sticky Floor Quiz at femalechurchleaders.com.Join a Cohort: Be part of our next Closing the Leadership Gap cohort for guided coaching and monthly Q&A with Kadi. Visit closingtheleadershipgap.com to learn more.Stay Connected: Follow us on Instagram @femalechurchleaders for daily encouragement and leadership tools.Spread the Word: If you found this episode helpful, please follow, rate, and share the podcast to help us reach more female church leaders.Tune in and get ready to lead with clarity, strength, and joy. Your calling matters, and we're here to support you every step of the way!