Fly on the Wall Podcast With Chris Sonksen

Culture isn’t built by accident.It’s shaped—intentionally or unintentionally—by what you emphasize every single week.In Episode 213 of the Fly on the Wall Podcast, Chris sits down with Brent to tackle one of the most important (and often misunderstood) aspects of leadership:How do you actually shape and form culture in your church?Because every church has a culture…The real question is:Is it the one you meant to build?Here’s what this conversation unpacks:Why doing more programs might actually be hurting your churchHow to focus your ministry on what truly matters (and stop spreading your team too thin)The difference between task, team, and title—and why most leaders skip a critical stepA practical, biblical framework for apprenticing leaders (and why the church is often behind on this)How to honor the past while still moving your church forwardWhat culture really is—and how to know if yours is workingOne of the most powerful takeaways:“Culture is shaped by the stories you tell, the heroes you make, and the things you celebrate.”If you want a stronger culture…Start there.Because whatever you consistently highlight becomes what your church naturally embodies.And if you’re feeling isolated in leadership, don’t do this alone—check out the Church Boom Network at churchboom.org. It’s a place to grow, connect, and lead alongside other pastors across the country.Let’s build culture on purpose.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

If nothing changes… nothing changes.That sounds obvious—but it’s exactly where a lot of churches get stuck.In Episode 212 of the Fly on the Wall Podcast, Chris sits down with JJ to talk about something deeper than strategy, systems, or even leadership tactics:Your thinking.Because the truth is—your ministry will never outgrow your mindset.This conversation goes beyond surface-level leadership and gets right to the core of what actually drives growth (or keeps you stuck).Here’s what you’ll walk away with:A healthy, grounded perspective on using AI in ministry (and where to draw the line)Why most churches stay stuck between 100–200—and the real lever that breaks that barrierThe shift from attendance-focused thinking → engagement-focused leadershipWhy “new blood” is the key to sustainable growthThe difference between lead goals vs. lag goals (and why most leaders focus on the wrong one)Why systems, strategy, and Spirit must work together—not competeThe powerful mindset shift: “Don’t ask what to do—ask how to think.”One of the most important takeaways:“Stop focusing on the result. Focus on the activity that produces the result.”But maybe the most challenging part of this episode is personal…Chris unpacks how many pastors unknowingly limit their church because of how they see themselves—and how shifting your internal narrative might be the breakthrough you’ve been praying for.👉 Listen to Episode 212 and join the conversation:And if you’re serious about growing as a leader, check out Church Boom University at churchboom.org—ongoing training, coaching, and resources designed to help you think (and lead) at a higher level.Let’s lead differently.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

Ever feel like your church is growing… but not actually moving forward?You see new people come.You feel momentum building.And then somehow… it slips back again.In Episode 211 of the Fly on the Wall Podcast, Chris sits down with Matthew to tackle one of the most common (and frustrating) realities in ministry:breaking through growth barriers and becoming a “sticky” church.This conversation gets incredibly practical.Here’s what you’ll take away:Why most churches stay stuck between growth and declineThe concept of a “church dashboard”—and how to identify exactly where things are breaking downWhy your problem might not be attendance… but engagementThe truth about “speed of engagement” (and why waiting too long is costing you people)Why systems—not just great services—actually change behaviorHow to shift your scorecard from attendance to engagement metrics that drive growthThe difference between building teams vs. building tribesWhy simplicity—not more programs—is the key to breaking past 100One of the most powerful lines from this episode:“Messages inspire, but systems change behavior.”If people are coming but not staying, it’s not a passion problem—it’s a process problem.👉 Listen to Episode 211 and sit in on this coaching session: And if you’re ready to stop guessing and start growing with clarity, check out churchboom.org—especially executive coaching. Having someone walk with you through these challenges changes everything.Let’s break the barrier.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

What separates churches that are truly thriving… from those that are just getting by?In Episode 210 of the Fly on the Wall Podcast, Chris sits down with Justin to unpack what he’s seeing across churches of every size—and the patterns that consistently show up in churches that are growing, healthy, and sustainable.This isn’t theory. It’s what’s actually working right now.In this episode, you’ll discover:Why authenticity and real spiritual movement matter more than everHow the speed of engagement is changing everything—and why waiting 6–9 months is too longThe shift from relying on outside leaders to building your own leadership pipelineWhy apprenticeship (not just classes) is the key to developing real leadersHow to move from just having a system… to creating a weekly rhythm of leadership growthThe difference between managing a ministry and multiplying leadersWhy your scorecard should focus on who you’re developing—not just what you’re doingOne of the biggest takeaways:Thriving churches are not leaving leadership development to chance—they are building intentional pathways and investing in people at every level.If you’re serious about growth, this conversation will challenge the way you think about engagement, leadership, and long-term sustainability.👉 Listen to Episode 210 and sit in on this coaching session: And if you’re ready to take the next step in your leadership, head over to churchboom.org. From Church Boom University to coaching and community, there are tools designed to help you grow and lead with clarity.Let’s keep building what matters.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

Growth doesn’t just require new strategy… it requires new courage.Because the very things that helped you grow early on can quietly become the things that hold you back from your next level.That’s what we unpack in Episode 209 of the Fly on the Wall Podcast, as I sit down with my friend Adam for a coaching conversation on what it really takes to move from one level of growth to the next. In this episode, we talk through:Why every new level of growth requires a new way of thinkingThe leadership habits you must leave behind to keep growingWhy you can’t lead a larger organization the same way you led a smaller oneThe shift from doing everything… to focusing only on what matters mostWhy delegating authority (not just tasks) is critical for scalingThe danger of protecting what you’ve built instead of continuing to grow itHow fear quietly replaces courage as your church growsWhy most churches plateau between growth levels—and how to avoid itThe leadership truth: You don’t have a growth problem—you have a thinking problemIf you feel stuck, stretched, or unsure how to break into your next level of growth, this conversation will challenge you to lead with clarity and courage.🎧 Listen to Episode 209 now and sit in on this coaching conversation.And don’t forget to check out churchboom.org for coaching, Church Boom University, and resources designed to help you grow and lead with confidence.You’re not meant to do ministry alone.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

Growth is exciting… but it also creates new challenges you can’t solve with old thinking.Because what got you here won’t always get you to where you’re going next.That’s the focus of Episode 208 of the Fly on the Wall Podcast, where I sit down with my friend Mike for a coaching conversation on navigating growth, managing tension, and thinking differently as your church expands. In this episode, we talk through:Why growth always requires a new way of thinkingThe tension between rest and productivity—and why it’s an obedience issue, not a balance issueHow to lead without guilt when you step away to restThe difference between leading from calling vs leading from obligationWhy handing off authority (not just tasks) is key to developing leadersHow to recognize when your current structure can’t sustain future growthWhy “you can’t solve new problems with old thinking”The shift from adding services to thinking about sending and expandingHow to stay ahead of the bell curve before growth plateausIf your church is growing—or you sense it’s about to—this conversation will challenge how you think, lead, and plan for what’s next.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

Leadership can be incredibly rewarding… and incredibly painful.Because if you’ve led long enough, you’ve experienced it—people you invested in walk away, criticism hits harder than expected, and it becomes tempting to pull back instead of leaning in.That’s exactly what we unpack in Episode 207 of the Fly on the Wall Podcast, as I sit down with my friend Ryan for a real and honest coaching conversation about leadership pain, loyalty, and how to keep building leaders without becoming cynical. In this episode, we talk through:Why leadership always comes with pain—and how to process it the right wayHow to evaluate criticism without letting it define youThe tension of investing deeply in people who may eventually leaveWhy core values matter more than talent when building your inner circleHow to identify the right leaders before you bring them closeThe difference between talent and teachability—and why both matterWhy high talent + low self-awareness can be dangerousHow leadership circles help you “sift and sort” to find the right peopleWhy you don’t attract what you want—you attract what you areThis is one of those conversations every pastor needs—especially if you’ve been hurt, frustrated, or unsure who to trust and invest in next.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

You don’t build a great church by accident—you build it by developing the right leaders.And just as important… knowing what happens next.That’s the focus of Episode 206 of the Fly on the Wall Podcast, where I sit down with my friend Joey for a practical conversation on identifying leaders, developing them to capacity, and creating a healthy plan for succession. Because here’s the reality:If you don’t define what you’re looking for in a leader… you’ll settle for less than what you need.In this episode, we cover:Why churches often promote managers instead of true leadersHow to create a clear leadership profile so you know what to look forThe difference between building a team vs building a tribeWhy leadership development requires both group learning and one-on-one investmentHow to create a “ministry path” (not just a role) for your key leadersWhere to focus your time for the greatest leadership returnHow to identify high-potential leaders worth investing inA practical framework for succession: developing, releasing, and transferring influence over timeWhy clarity in transition plans prevents future conflictIf you’re thinking about the future of your leadership—or the future of your church—this episode will help you build with intention, not assumption.🎧 Listen to Episode 206 now and sit in on this coaching conversation.And before you go—make sure you check out churchboom.org.From Church Boom University to coaching and the Network, we’ve built tools to help you grow as a leader and lead with clarity.You’re not meant to do ministry alone.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

Growth is exciting… but retention is where health is proven.Because once your church starts attracting people, the next question becomes:How do you close the back door—so people don’t drift out as fast as they came in?That’s exactly what we unpack in Episode 205 of the Fly on the Wall Podcast.In this coaching conversation, I sit down with my good buddy Sheldon (pastoring a great church in Springfield, Missouri) to talk about how to follow up well, build connection fast, and create the kind of culture where people don’t just attend—they belong.In this episode, we cover:The follow-up mistake most churches make: only following up with the guest (not the person who brought them)How to increase first-time guest connection using a simple QR code + “Who brought you?” questionWhy a quick personalized video from the pastor works better than emails and lettersHow to get more guest cards returned by attaching your follow-up to a compassion projectThe key retention principle: People come for the message… but they stay for the relationshipsWhy speed of engagement matters—and how serving changes everythingHow to turn teams into tribes (and why tribes retain people)A practical challenge for every ministry team: add one new volunteer every monthHow to develop future elders, deacons, and leaders through apprenticeship (2 Timothy 2:2)If you’re seeing people respond to the gospel—but you want them to become lifelong disciples and connected members—this episode will give you a clear, practical path forward.🎧 Listen to Episode 205 now and sit in on this coaching conversation.And before you go—make sure you check out the Church Boom Network at churchboom.org.It’s a free community where pastors gather monthly on Zoom, connect with other leaders, and grow together—because leadership was never meant to be done alone.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

When momentum shows up, it feels amazing.But momentum can also hide what’s about to break.That’s why Episode 204 of the Fly on the Wall Podcast is such an important conversation.I sit down with my buddy Nathan (pastoring a great church in Ohio) to talk about how to bring out the best in your team—and how to keep getting better even when things are going well.Nathan asks a question every leader needs to wrestle with:How do you keep growing in seasons of momentum… instead of getting comfortable and plateauing again?In this episode, we cover:Why asking tough questions is one of the greatest leadership skills you can developThe “Think Tank” rhythm: setting aside time to improve systems on purposeA question that exposes weak systems fast: “If we doubled, what would break?”Why leaders must resist stability and embrace disruption before the bell curve hitsHow to raise leaders who stay strong when things get hard—not just when things are easyWhy every leader needs a growth plan (career path + accountability)The difference between pioneers, builders, and maintainers—and how churches drift into maintenancePractical framework for running a capital campaign with clarity and momentumIf you’re seeing momentum again—or praying for it—this episode will help you stay ahead of the curve and build leaders who can carry what’s coming next.🎧 Listen to Episode 204 now and sit in on this coaching conversation.And before you go—make sure you check out churchboom.org and sign up for Church Boom University.You’ll get quarterly books, exclusive webinars, and masterclasses designed to help you grow as a leader and build with confidence.You’re not meant to do ministry alone.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

If you’ve ever felt like your church has good people… but the results feel inconsistent, this episode will help.In Episode 203 of the Fly on the Wall Podcast, I sit down with my buddy Alan for a coaching conversation on one of the most important leadership shifts a pastor can make:Stop relying on programs—and start building systems.Because at the end of the day, healthy growth isn’t an accident. It’s the result of clarity, accountability, and asking the right questions until you have real answers.In this episode, we cover:How to keep staff from “wandering out of their lane” (and why clarity fixes most of it)The difference between passion drift vs expectation driftWhen to build facilities—and why you should only build out of momentum and visionWhy “we shape the building… then the building shapes us”How to stop hodgepodging programs and start designing discipleship with the end game in mindWhy desperate leaders reach for programs—and growing leaders build processesThe 7 questions every lead pastor and lead team must be able to answer (mission, values, leadership development, volunteers, generosity, etc.)Why intuition isn’t duplicatable… but systems areThis is one of those practical episodes that will immediately sharpen how you lead your team, build culture, and move your church forward.🎧 Listen to Episode 203 now and sit in on this coaching conversation.And as always—make sure you check out churchboom.org.You’ll find Church Boom University, coaching certification, the Church Boom Network, and tools designed to help you lead with confidence.You’re not meant to do ministry alone.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

As Jeremy’s church moves from survival to sustainability—new building, construction, momentum—he asks a question that every growing leader must wrestle with:Which leadership habits that served me early on still belong in this season… and which ones could now be holding us back?This conversation is packed with clarity for pastors navigating growth, change, and increasing demands.In this episode, we talk through:• Why structure must change when the nature of your church changes• How momentum can exaggerate strengths while hiding weaknesses• The danger of measuring only attendance and offering• How to measure activities that actually predict long-term health• How to protect your heart as pressure and criticism increase• The difference between being out of balance vs out of obedience• Why leaders need both a mentor and a coach—and why they are not the sameIf your church is growing—or you’re praying for growth—this episode will help you think more strategically about leadership, culture, and sustainability.🎧 Listen to Episode 202 now and sit in on this coaching session.And one more important reminder:If you’re pastoring a church under 100, we’ve created something specifically for you.We’re launching a coaching cohort designed to help churches break through the 100 barrier—and it is completely free. Ten months of coaching. A retreat. No cost to you.If your church is under 100, go to churchboom.org, click on Cohorts, and sign up right away.We would love to serve you, encourage you, and help you move into a healthy next season.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

How do you know when it’s time to start something new… and when it’s time to finally stop something that isn’t working?That’s one of the toughest leadership tensions in ministry—because in church world, it’s easy to keep programs alive simply because we’re emotionally attached to them… or because a few influential people are attached to them.In Episode 201 of the Fly on the Wall Podcast, I’m joined by my good friend Paul for a practical coaching conversation around a question every pastor eventually faces:What does successful growth actually look like—and how do you measure it?And from there, we dive straight into the big issue: When do you keep a ministry going… and when do you shut it down?In this episode, we cover:How to measure growth beyond just attendance and offeringWhy you should measure the activity that produces results—not just the resultsThe key metrics that predict future growth: volunteers, leaders, first-time guests, small groups, and unique giversThe difference between being busy and being productive (and how churches confuse the two)How to know if a ministry has natural momentum or manufactured momentumWhy some programs drain leadership energy with almost no Kingdom returnThe “pilot it before you start it” principle (and why it saves you so much pain later)What a healthy reboot or rebrand actually requires—beyond a name changeThis one is full of wisdom for pastors trying to build with clarity, simplify what matters, and make leadership decisions without guilt or pressure.🎧 Listen to Episode 201 now and sit in on this coaching conversation.And if you’re a lead pastor who wants a place to belong—and a circle of other leaders to grow with—I want to personally invite you to check out the Church Boom Network at churchboom.org.When you join the Network, you’ll connect monthly with a small group of pastors over Zoom, get access to live events and special opportunities, and grow alongside leaders who understand the weight you carry.Leadership was never meant to be done alone.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

When momentum shows up, it feels amazing.But momentum can also hide what’s about to break.That’s why Episode 204 of the Fly on the Wall Podcast is such an important conversation.I sit down with my buddy Nathan (pastoring a great church in Ohio) to talk about how to bring out the best in your team—and how to keep getting better even when things are going well.Nathan asks a question every leader needs to wrestle with:How do you keep growing in seasons of momentum… instead of getting comfortable and plateauing again?In this episode, we cover:Why asking tough questions is one of the greatest leadership skills you can developThe “Think Tank” rhythm: setting aside time to improve systems on purposeA question that exposes weak systems fast: “If we doubled, what would break?”Why leaders must resist stability and embrace disruption before the bell curve hitsHow to raise leaders who stay strong when things get hard—not just when things are easyWhy every leader needs a growth plan (career path + accountability)The difference between pioneers, builders, and maintainers—and how churches drift into maintenancePractical framework for running a capital campaign with clarity and momentumIf you’re seeing momentum again—or praying for it—this episode will help you stay ahead of the curve and build leaders who can carry what’s coming next.🎧 Listen to Episode 204 now and sit in on this coaching conversation.And before you go—make sure you check out churchboom.org and sign up for Church Boom University.You’ll get quarterly books, exclusive webinars, and masterclasses designed to help you grow as a leader and build with confidence.You’re not meant to do ministry alone.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

We just hit a major milestone—Episode 200 of the Fly on the Wall Podcast.And before I say anything else, I just want to say thank you.Whether you’ve listened to one episode or all 200… whether you’ve shared the podcast, sent it to a friend, or applied the leadership principles in your ministry—I’m genuinely grateful. This podcast exists to serve pastors like you, and it’s because of your support that we’ve made it this far.Now, for Episode 200, we’re tackling something that every leader feels—but not every leader knows how to address:Have you ever realized you’re making leadership decisions based more on keeping people happy than moving the mission forward?If so—you’re not alone.In Episode 200, I’m joined by my good friend Hannah for an honest coaching conversation about one of the most common leadership traps pastors face: people pleasing—and the anxiety that often comes with it.What I love about this session is Hannah’s transparency. She shares how her people-pleasing tendencies have started shaping her leadership culture—especially as she’s onboarding new leaders. And she asks a question every pastor needs to wrestle with:How do you overcome people pleasing and anxiety as a lead pastor… without losing your heart for people?In this episode, we cover:How people pleasing quietly controls your leadership decisionsWhy you’ll never outlive this struggle—you can only outgrow itThe truth about identity: where it really comes from when nobody’s watchingWhy “your vision is for sale” when people pleasing takes overHow to discern the source of criticism (and when not to receive it)Why busyness can create a false sense of productivity in your churchHow churches become “busy but not productive”—and what to do insteadThe In-N-Out principle: doing a few things exceptionally well instead of everything averageThe difference between task-driven ministry and leader-multiplying cultureWhy systems—not personality—are what sustain long-term growthThis one is packed with insight, conviction, and practical leadership clarity—especially if you’re leading in a smaller church context where relationships, giving, and criticism can feel personal.🎧 Listen to Episode 200 now and sit in on this coaching conversation.And one more time—thank you for being part of the Fly on the Wall Podcast journey. It means more than you know.Before you go, if you’ve ever thought, “Could I coach pastors and leaders?” I want to personally invite you to check out the Church Boom Coaching Certification Program at churchboom.org.It’s 100% digital, you go at your own pace, and it’s helping leaders build a second chapter of ministry—and even a second income stream.You can become a coach. And we’d love to help you do it.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

What do you do when giving is up… but you’re still living week to week?That’s the exact tension we unpack in this week’s Fly on the Wall Podcast. In this live coaching conversation, I sit down with my good friend Pastor Aaron—who’s experiencing rapid growth and incredible generosity in his church… but is also feeling financial pressure he didn’t expect.And here’s the twist: the money is coming in. It’s just not landing where it needs to land.In Episode 198, we talk about how pastors can lead their church into financial health without sounding like, “You’re doing this wrong,” or communicating, “All we want is your money.”More importantly—we talk about how to build systems that prevent these problems from happening in the first place.In this episode, we cover:Why “the battle is won or lost in the resources”How project-based giving can accidentally replace tithing (even in generous churches)How to redirect giving without creating mistrust or guiltWhy every church needs a Generosity Calendar (and what it actually looks like)The power of “one bucket giving” (missions / local / national / global) and why it worksHow to “know the state of your flock” and break down giving tiers for better discipleshipWhy momentum hides weakness—and how to get ahead of the leadership lidDeveloping leaders with a system (not intuition), so your growth doesn’t outpace your structureThis is a practical, honest episode for pastors leading fast-growing churches—and it will absolutely help you think strategically about how to fuel vision without living in financial anxiety.🎧 Listen to Episode 198 now and sit in on this coaching conversation.And if you’re craving leadership community and tools that help you build systems like these, I want to personally invite you to check out Church Boom University at churchboom.org.You’ll get quarterly books sent to you, exclusive webinars, masterclasses, and a platform to connect with other pastors and leaders who are building what God has called them to build—without doing it alone.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

Have you ever felt the tension of leading others… while still serving someone over you?In Episode 198 of the Fly on the Wall Podcast, I sit down with my good friend Pastor Joe for a powerful coaching conversation on the tension between the first chair and second chair—and how to build a team culture that balances care and candor.Because healthy teams don’t just feel supportive… they also tell the truth.In this episode, we talk through:Why every healthy team must balance care + candorWhat happens when you have care without candor (dysfunction)What happens when you have candor without care (distance)How to have hard conversations without being harshA practical approach to candor that lowers defensiveness and restores alignmentHow to lead up and lead down at the same timeWhy second-chair leaders often carry first-chair responsibility—and the tension that createsHow to create a culture where your team feels safe to share ideas (best idea wins)The difference between compliance and true alignmentIf you’re leading in any capacity—lead pastor, associate pastor, staff leader, or key volunteer—this conversation will help you build stronger relationships, a healthier culture, and a better team.🎧 Listen to Episode 198 now and sit in on this coaching session.And don’t forget to check out churchboom.org for coaching, Church Boom Network, Church Boom University, and resources designed to help you grow and lead with confidence.Cheering you on,Chris SonksenCEO & Founder, Church BoomHost, Fly on the Wall Podcast👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

If you could sit down with a seasoned leader and ask, “What do you wish you had known earlier?”—this episode is exactly that conversation.In Episode 197 of the Fly on the Wall Podcast, I’m joined by my good friend Pastor John Martin, Assistant Superintendent for the Southern California Assemblies of God and former lead pastor of a large multi-site church. This is a wisdom-filled, honest discussion shaped by decades of leadership experience.We talk about the things leaders rarely say out loud—but deeply feel.In this episode, we cover:What Pastor John wishes he had known as a younger leaderHow to recognize when staff members are losing passion or energyThe difference between spiritual exhaustion and role misalignmentWhy passion leaks when calling and assignment drift apartHow to have non-corrective, non-urgent conversations that restore leadersWhat to do when churches are growing faster than finances or staffingWhy leadership development—not money—is usually the real bottleneckHow to lower the bar to serve without lowering the bar to leadWe also dive into reframing common leadership problems, shifting from pastoring everyone to pastoring leaders, and building systems that can actually sustain growth.This episode is thoughtful, practical, and deeply pastoral. If you’re leading people through changing seasons—or navigating one yourself—you’ll walk away encouraged and better equipped.🎧 Listen to Episode 197 now and sit in on this coaching conversation.And if you’re craving leadership community and ongoing growth, I want to personally invite you to explore the Church Boom Network at churchboom.org. We gather monthly, grow together, and remind each other that leadership was never meant to be done alone.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

What do you do when your church feels stuck—and your heart feels tired?In Episode 196 of the Fly on the Wall Podcast, I sit down with my good friend David Espinoza for a powerful and honest coaching conversation that hits two realities every long-term leader eventually faces: breaking through growth barriers and dealing with the pain that comes with leadership.David pastors a nearly 100-year-old church and has faithfully led through decades of consistency—but like many leaders, he’s asking the right question: What has to change if we’re going to move forward?In this episode, we talk through:Why what got you to 600 won’t get you to 1,000The leadership shifts required to break growth ceilingsMoving from pastor-led to team- and system-led leadershipThe importance of mid-level leaders and defined pathwaysHow to heal from betrayal, forgive well, and keep your focus on your courtWhy delayed conflict always costs more in the endHow obedience—not balance—protects your calling long-termThis conversation is both strategic and deeply pastoral. If you’re carrying the weight of leadership, navigating growth tension, or working through pain you didn’t ask for, this episode will meet you right where you are.🎧 Listen to Episode 196 now and sit in on this live coaching session.And if you’re hungry to grow as a leader, be sure to check out everything available at churchboom.org—from coaching to community to leadership development. Leaders are learners, and you don’t have to figure this out alone.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

How do you stay spiritually grounded when the weight of leadership feels heavy—and the pressure never really lets up?In Episode 196 of the Fly on the Wall Podcast, I sit down with my friend Brandon for a rich, honest conversation about the personal and spiritual life of a leader. This episode goes beneath strategies and systems and straight into the inner life that sustains everything else.We talk about calling, confidence, fear, prayer, gratitude, and what it actually looks like to walk with God when no one else is watching.In this episode, we explore:How leaders first recognize God’s calling on their life—and why others calling it out mattersWhy you can’t wait until pressure hits to get spiritually groundedThe long, unseen work of becoming rooted before storms comeHow gratitude reshapes prayer and deepens reliance on GodWhy authenticity matters more than performance in today’s churchWhat leaders need more of—and less of—in this generationThis conversation is reflective, pastoral, and deeply encouraging. If you’ve ever felt the tension of leadership, wrestled with fear, or wondered how to sustain a healthy inner life over the long haul, this episode is for you.🎧 Listen to Episode 196 now and sit in on this meaningful coaching conversation.And if you’re longing to grow as a leader—or help other leaders grow—be sure to check out Church Boom University and our Coaching Certification at churchboom.org. Leaders are learners, and you were never meant to lead alone.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

We’re revisiting one of the most listened-to episodes of the entire year on the Fly on the Wall Podcast—because it hit a nerve in the best way.In Episode 173, Chris Sonksen sits down with Pastor Rob for a powerful, behind-the-scenes coaching session on one of the biggest leadership bottlenecks in the church: getting leaders to really lead.If you’ve ever felt stuck because your staff or volunteers have maxed out their capacity—or if your church is growing and you’re not sure how to raise the next layer of leaders—this listener favorite is exactly what you need.In This Episode, You’ll Discover:✅ What a Leadership Circle is—and how to start one✅ How to identify the next-level leaders hidden in your church✅ The #1 question to ask after every leadership conversation✅ A clear framework to sift, sort, and apprentice future leaders✅ How to release responsibility without losing excellenceChris shares the same practical tools he’s used for years to multiply leaders at every level and build churches that thrive with depth—not just size.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

Join Chris Sonksen for one of the most listened-to episodes of the year on the Fly on the Wall Podcast, featuring a powerful deep dive into leadership development and effective hiring strategies with special guest, Pastor Vince Cooper. This listener favorite is a must-listen for anyone looking to strengthen their team’s dynamics and recruit leaders who actually align with the vision God gave your church.In this standout episode, you’ll explore:Leadership Development:Techniques to identify and nurture potential leaders already in your church or organization—so you’re not constantly leading alone.Effective Hiring:Best practices for recruiting the right people, not just the available ones, and ensuring every hire supports your church’s mission and culture.If you’re ready to elevate your leadership and build teams that multiply impact—not pressure—this episode offers practical, actionable insight you can start using right away.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

Momentum is a powerful gift—but it can also be deceiving.That’s why we’re bringing back one of the most listened-to episodes of the entire year on the Fly on the Wall Podcast. In Episode 180, I sit down with my good friend Chris Norman to talk about the two most common places pastors get stuck: when the church is growing… and when it’s not.Pastors told us this conversation hit home because it speaks to both seasons with honest clarity and practical solutions.This top episode is packed with insight, including: ✅ Why momentum hides weakness—and what to do before it runs out ✅ How to break free from “the weeds” and lead from the right level ✅ The four rings that pull you away from your mission-critical calling ✅ Why your biggest limitation might be the way you see your own situation ✅ The simple “Boxes and Batons” framework to measure real discipleship—not just attendanceWhether you're scaling fast or wondering why growth has stalled, this conversation will help you refocus your leadership where it matters most.And if you’re serious about growing yourself while you grow your church, don’t miss Church Boom University—our digital coaching platform full of masterclasses, tools, and practical help for pastors like you.🎧 Tune in to one of our top episodes of the year: Episode 180👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

You’re doing the work. Preaching your heart out. Leading your team. Pouring into your people.But if your first-time guest numbers are low, you may be fighting a quiet drift—and growth can stall before you even realize it.That’s why we’re bringing back one of the most listened-to episodes of the entire year on the Fly on the Wall Podcast. In Episode 181, I sit down with my friend Jason Norman to talk about one of the most vital ingredients in church growth: invite culture.This episode struck a chord with pastors everywhere because it gets painfully practical about what really fuels momentum in a church.We break down: ✅ The real numbers you should be hitting with first-time guests ✅ Why new blood is the key to more new blood ✅ The 9-month window most guests bring someone—then stop ✅ How one church uses a Harley-Davidson-inspired bell to celebrate first-time guests ✅ A simple strategy to track and celebrate who’s actually invitingIf you’re serious about growing your church (not just maintaining what you’ve got), this episode is a must-listen.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

Don’t miss one of our most listened-to episodes of the year on the Fly On The Wall Podcast! In this powerful conversation, Chris Sonksen and Jeremiah Semmler dive into proven, practical assimilation strategies that are helping churches all over the country turn first-time guests into fully engaged members of their church family.This standout episode captured so much attention because it addresses one of the most important questions church leaders are asking today: How do we help guests become a meaningful part of our church community—and do it quickly, intentionally, and with care?Episode Highlights: • How to guide people from visitor to engaged member • Strategies for quick and impactful assimilation that don’t overwhelm your team • An introduction to Church Boom University—your hub for mastering church leadership and growth🎧 Listen now to one of our top episodes of the year and take your church’s engagement strategy to the next level: https://youtu.be/IlaGTQdyZ_wFor more resources and to become a part of our community, visit churchboom.org.Thank you for your continued engagement. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

As we wrap up an incredible year of leadership conversations, we’re bringing back one of the most listened-to Fly on the Wall episodes of the year.Pastor Darryl Beckett joined Chris Sonksen for a powerful discussion that resonated deeply with pastors, planters, and rural leaders across the country. The heartbeat of the episode is one defining question: Would your city feel the loss if your church closed its doors?In this listener favorite, you’ll explore:• How to break out of low attendance patterns and build early momentum• Why tracking spiritual and numerical growth matters• What it means to be a church your city can’t imagine losing• How to learn what your community actually needs• The long-term fruit of asking, “How can we serve you?”We can’t think of a better episode to close the year with.🎧 Tune in to one of our top episodes: Episode 164👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

What if the strength of your ministry wasn’t just in how you lead—but in how you follow?In this week’s Fly on the Wall Podcast, I talk with Pastor Brett about one of the most overlooked keys to ministry health: learning to support your leader. We unpack what it looks like to steward another person’s vision, lead with loyalty, and build unity that lasts.Here’s what we cover in Episode 194:How to serve under leadership without losing your voiceThe difference between loyalty and silenceWhy alignment determines growthHow to strengthen your pastor’s confidence—and your team’s cultureWhat it really means to “protect the DNA” of your churchPlus, we touch on bivocational ministry and practical ways to lead strong in every season.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

Hey Pastor,What do you do when growth creates pressure—and not everyone’s ready for what’s next?In this week’s episode of the Fly on the Wall Podcast, I sit down with Pastor Marty from a small but growing church in rural America to talk about one of the most practical leadership challenges we all face: how to manage change and mobilize volunteers when your systems are stretched to the limit.We unpack the realities of increasing attendance, limited space, and a stretched team—and how to lead through those pain points with vision, structure, and confidence.Here’s what we dive into in Episode 194:Why activity beats results when it comes to church growthHow to shift your team from building teams to building tribesWhat invisible momentum really looks like—and how to create itHow to expand your volunteer base in 90-day sprintsWhat to do when your current culture is resisting your next levelIf you’re feeling stuck between what’s working and what’s next, this conversation will give you the clarity and confidence to move forward without burning out or backing down.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

What if coaching isn’t a luxury—but a lifeline?In this week’s Fly on the Wall Podcast, I talk with Pastor Steve from California about two things every leader needs to get better at: receiving coaching and casting vision.Here’s what we break down in Episode 192:Why every pastor needs a coach (yes, even you!)The difference between coaching and consulting—and why both matterHow to communicate vision with clarity, language, and urgencyThe biggest mistake leaders make when casting visionWhat separates professionals from amateurs (hint: it’s not talent)Plus, I’ll show you how Church Boom’s Coaching Certification Program can become your next chapter—or your second income stream. It’s online, at your own pace, and designed to equip you to coach other pastors.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

What if the biggest growth barrier in your church… is your leadership pipeline?In this week’s Fly on the Wall Podcast, I sit down with Pastor Darren from Oklahoma to talk about the difference between discipleship and leadership development, the qualities that set apart high-capacity leaders, and how to stop leaving leadership to chance.Here’s what we get into in Episode 191:Why “just being discipled” isn’t enoughWhat Jesus modeled in leadership circles—and how to do the sameThe exact traits we look for when apprenticing potential leadersHow to identify grit, hunger, and trajectoryWhy high-level leaders change everythingIf your dream is to multiply your reach, expand your impact, and develop leaders who build leaders, this episode is a must.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

It’s one thing to grow a church—it’s another thing to sustain that growth with the right leaders in the right places.In Episode 190 of the Fly on the Wall Podcast, I sit down with Pastor Eli from Ohio for a powerful conversation about building leadership pipelines that work—not just for a season, but for the long haul.If you’ve ever felt like you’re constantly plugging holes, re-training the same people, or doing too much yourself, this episode is going to hit home.Here’s what we talk about:How to build a repeatable leadership development systemWhy ownership beats volunteering every timeThe one mindset shift that changes how people show up to serveWhat to do when your team starts feeling stale or disengagedHow clarity + coaching leads to sustainable growthEli shares the actual systems they’ve used to raise up hundreds of volunteers and leaders—and how those systems freed him to focus on what matters most.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

There are two big questions we don’t talk about enough in ministry:How do I prepare now for the next 20 years of leadership and life?What do I do with the pain I’ve already walked through?In Episode 189 of the Fly on the Wall Podcast, I sit down with Pastor Jonathan for a powerful, vulnerable conversation on both. We talk about financial readiness, family rhythms, spiritual obedience—and the emotional toll ministry can take when betrayal and burnout hit home.You’ll hear:What it looks like to prepare for your second chapter—whether that’s retirement or a new way to leadWhy obedience matters more than “balance” in family lifeA simple heart-check to evaluate if you’re really walking in spiritual healthHow I’ve processed deep wounds from people I trustedWhy coaching, forgiveness, and leadership clarity matter now more than everWhether you're in a season of building, rebuilding, or looking ahead—this conversation will challenge you to lead with intentionality and finish well.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

Episode 188 of the Fly on the Wall podcast is here, and it's a must-listen for any church ready to stand out in a crowded city.In this episode, Chris Sonksen sits down with Pastor Brian from New Mexico for a dynamic coaching session on how to differentiate your church, double in size, and scale with clarity and confidence.If you’ve ever wrestled with how to define your church’s unique identity—or how to build smart structure without losing heart—this one is packed with gold.🎧 In This Episode, You’ll Discover:What a USP (Ultimate Strategic Position) is—and why your church needs oneHow to maximize your staff and team by clarifying mission-critical tasksWhy many churches stall at 500 and what to do differentlyHow to go from team to tribe—and build lasting volunteer cultureThe biggest mistakes leaders make when scaling from 500 to 1,000+How to evaluate if someone actually belongs at your leadership tableWhether you’re a church of 150 or 1,500, this conversation will stretch your leadership and help you make strategic shifts that lead to healthy, sustained growth.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

Episode 187 of the Fly on the Wall podcast is live—and it’s a big one for pastors and leaders.In this episode, Chris Sonksen sits down with Pastor Clyde to tackle a quiet challenge that’s holding churches back: We’re great at building teams, but not at building tribes.👉 If your volunteers feel like they're just filling a spot… 👉 If your part-time or stipend staff aren’t sure what’s expected… 👉 If your staff meetings lack energy and buy-in…This episode is exactly what you need.🎧 You’ll discover:Why people don’t stay committed to teams—but they will to tribesHow to raise the bar with volunteers (without overwhelming them)A practical way to make every staff member effective, no matter their hoursHow to lead better staff meetings that spark buy-in, creativity, and momentumSimple shifts that will turn your church from “meh” to magnetic🛠️ Chris also shares how small, strategic changes at the top can build a culture of ownership from the ground up.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

Episode 186 of the Fly on the Wall podcast just dropped—and this one is packed with insights that can help any pastor lead with greater focus, clarity, and momentum.In this episode, Chris Sonksen sits down with Pastor Nathan from Tennessee to unpack a bold question:What are great leaders doing that others are not?From coaching thousands of pastors across the country, Chris has spotted a few patterns—and a few major pitfalls. If your church is growing (or wants to), this conversation will help you get ahead of the bell curve.🎯 In this episode, you’ll learn:The 4 biggest mistakes most lead pastors are makingWhat it really means to lead from your “mission critical”How to structure your team now for the church you’ll be a year from nowWhy fast, fluid, and flexible leaders build momentumAnd how to raise up leaders who are already part of your church📍 This isn’t theory—it’s practical coaching you can apply this week.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

Episode 185 of the Fly on the Wall podcast is live—and this one cuts to the core of leadership.Chris Sonksen sits down with Pastor Joseph to tackle a topic many leaders avoid: how to give and receive correction in a way that builds trust and maturity.You’ll hear:✅ How to create a culture of feedback without fear ✅ The #1 phrase that defuses defensiveness ✅ Why emotional intelligence is a non-negotiable for your team ✅ A game-changing perspective on raising disciples and leadersIf you’ve ever wondered how to address behavior without losing people—or how to accept feedback without crumbling—this conversation is for you.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

In this week’s episode of the Fly on the Wall Podcast, Chris Sonksen sits down with Pastor Brenton from Atmosphere Church for a powerful and honest conversation about living up to your God-given potential.If you’ve ever wrestled with discouragement, doubt, or wondering whether you’re truly making the most of what God has placed in your hands, this episode is for you.💥 In This Episode, You’ll Discover:Why so many pastors hit a wall—and how to break through itThe difference between calling and capacityWhat it means to live at the level of your giftingWhy coaching isn’t optional if you want to growHow to avoid leading below your potentialChris and Brenton unpack the difference between faithfulness and fruitfulness, and why stewarding what you’ve been given matters more than chasing what you haven’t.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

Episode 183 of the Fly on the Wall Podcast is live— and if you’re navigating church growth, staff retention, or post-COVID tension, this one is for you.In this episode, I sit down with Pastor Frank for a real coaching conversation around two key challenges:Building a budget that actually reflects your mission, not just your maintenance.Leading through political and cultural tension in a multicultural church without losing unity.So many pastors feel stuck in either “survival mode” or “division management.” But it doesn’t have to be that way.Here’s what we unpack together:✅ How to shift your mindset from just “paying bills” to funding vision✅ What percentage-based budgeting can do for staff alignment and longevity ✅ The hidden costs of not appreciating your team ✅ How to create invisible momentum—before it ever shows up on a spreadsheet ✅ The role of wise transitions when it’s time to release leadership ✅ The #1 principle for shepherding through political divideI believe this episode will help you lead with greater clarity, health, and courage.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

You’ve got passionate worship.A solid message.An engaged team.But if guests aren’t coming back—or your services feel flat—it might be time for a gut check on your Sunday experience.In Episode 182 of the Fly on the Wall podcast, I coach my friend Matt Fielder through a deep dive on how to elevate the weekend. We don’t just talk theory—we get into the gritty details.Here’s what we unpack:✅ How to spot the “growth lid” in your Sunday experience✅ The critical 30 minutes before and after your service that most pastors ignore✅ Why “worship leader” isn’t the same as “culture shaper”—and how to bridge the gap✅ What it means to go from good content to a compelling experience✅ The one change that made guests start telling Matt’s team: “I’ve never been to a church like this before”You work hard every week—make sure your Sunday is working hard for you, too.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

You’re doing the work. Preaching your heart out. Leading your team. Pouring into your people.But if your first-time guest numbers are low, you’re likely fighting against a quiet drift—and growth will stall before you even realize it.In Episode 181 of the Fly on the Wall podcast, I talk with my friend Jason Norman about one of the most vital ingredients for church growth: invite culture.We break down:✅ The real numbers you should be hitting with first-time guests ✅ Why new blood is the key to more new blood ✅ The 9-month window most guests bring someone—then stop ✅ How one church uses a Harley-Davidson-inspired bell to celebrate first-time guests ✅ A simple strategy to track and celebrate who’s actually invitingIf you’re serious about growing your church (and not just maintaining what you’ve got), this episode is a must-listen.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

Momentum is a powerful gift—but it can also be deceiving.In Episode 180 of the Fly on the Wall podcast, I sit down with my good friend Chris Norman to talk about the two most common places pastors get stuck: when the church is growing… and when it’s not.This episode is packed with insight for both seasons. We cover:✅ Why momentum hides weakness—and what to do before it runs out✅ How to break free from “the weeds” and lead from the right level✅ The four rings that pull you away from your mission-critical calling✅ Why your biggest limitation might be the way you see your own situation✅ The simple “Boxes and Batons” framework to measure real discipleship—not just attendanceWhether you're scaling fast or wondering why growth has stalled, this conversation will help you refocus your leadership where it matters most.And if you’re serious about growing yourself while you grow your church, don’t miss Church Boom University—our digital coaching platform full of masterclasses, tools, and practical help for pastors like you.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

You made it through the launch. You survived the first year. You’ve built momentum. But now… things are stalling.In Episode 179 of the Fly on the Wall podcast, I talk with David and Randall—church planters in L.A.—about breaking the 120 barrier and the realities of leading beyond year four.Here’s what we unpack in this raw, practical coaching convo:✅ Why growing churches must move from ministering to people to ministering through people✅ The surprising danger of keeping the same leaders who got you here✅ The “cement to concrete” problem and how it slows momentum✅ What I believe are the 3 most mission-critical hires every church should prioritize✅ A traffic light system for wise decision-making (especially around buildings and campuses)If you’re past survival mode and wondering what’s next, this is the episode you’ve been waiting for.And if you’re the kind of leader who loves these conversations and wants to help others grow—have you considered becoming a certified Church Boom Coach? It’s online, at your pace, and could be your next best step.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

Are you spending your time doing what actually moves the mission forward—or just what needs to get done?In Episode 178 of the Fly on the Wall podcast, I sit down with my friend Scott to talk about one of the most important leadership principles we teach: Mission Critical.What is it? It’s the few things that only you can do—the ones that, if you don’t, your church’s future is at risk.In this episode, we unpack:✅ The one question every leader should ask: “If I don’t do ___, our future is threatened.”✅ Why 70% of your time should be focused in just 3–4 mission-critical lanes✅ How to eliminate, delegate, or automate everything else✅ The difference between giving away tasks vs. giving away authority✅ Why leaders who won’t let go accidentally create the lid on their churchThis is a coaching conversation every pastor needs—especially if you're growing, plateauing, or feeling pulled in a thousand directions.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

Change is necessary—but it’s not always easy. Especially when you’re leading a legacy church with deep roots, multiple campuses, and a congregation that’s sensitive to every shift.In Episode 177 of the Fly on the Wall podcast, I sit down with Pastor Ben, who recently stepped into leadership at a church with 75 years of history and only three pastors before him. What followed? Mergers. Staff transitions. A shift in preaching and leadership style.And the tension?Every time he made a change—big or small—people braced themselves.We talk candidly about:✅ How to bring change without blowing up what came before✅ Why getting influencers on board makes or breaks momentum✅ Leading through mergers and finding new roles for displaced leaders✅ The danger of sidelining your spouse’s calling in ministry✅ Why obedience (not balance) is the key to longevityIf you’re in a season of transition—or know one is coming—this episode will help you lead with wisdom, honor the past, and build for the future.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

If you’re leading a small church or juggling bivocational ministry, this one’s for you.In Episode 176 of the Fly on the Wall Podcast, I sit down with Pastor Bill from Oklahoma for a powerful conversation about the unique challenges (and opportunities) small church pastors face—especially when it comes to balance, burnout, and building a leadership pipeline.If you’ve ever wondered:How do I grow when my church is in a small town?How do I build a team without a big budget?Can I take time off without everything falling apart?This episode answers those questions—and more—with transparency, strategy, and real-world encouragement.🎙️ In this episode, we talk about:Why small church ministry doesn’t mean small impactHow bivocational leaders can guard their time and grow their teamThe #1 root issue behind burnout—and how to confront itWhat it really means to lead from a place of obedience, not exhaustionHow to develop people through a clear pipeline (no matter your size)Why a pastor’s true strength is revealed in their absence, not just their presenceIf you're a small church or bivocational pastor—or if you coach them—this is the episode you’ve been waiting for.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

Let’s be honest—most staff meetings are too long, too vague, and too ineffective. But they don’t have to be.In Episode 175 of the Fly on the Wall Podcast, I sit down with Pastor Marlando from Washington to talk about how to lead better meetings, handle passive-aggressive attitudes on your team, and prepare for multi-site expansion the right way.If your team meetings have lost energy—or if you’re leading through team tensions or growing pains—this coaching session will give you clarity.🎙️ In this episode, we cover:Why size determines your meeting structure—and what needs to change as you growHow to decide who belongs in which room (and who doesn’t)The difference between branded house vs. house of brands for multi-site strategyHow to spot undercurrents in staff dynamics and address them earlyWhy value—not title—should determine who gets a seat at the leadership tableThis conversation is packed with practical advice and real-world coaching for pastors navigating growth, meetings, and multi-site momentum.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

In Episode 174 of the Fly on the Wall Podcast, Chris Sonksen sits down with Pastor Hutson L Goza from Missouri to tackle a challenge so many pastors face: how to regain momentum when your church feels stuck.Hudson leads an 89-year-old church with a deep legacy and a desire for renewal. Together, they unpack real frustrations—plateaued growth, volunteer droughts, cultural tension between generations—and most importantly, how to move forward with clarity and strategy.If you’re in a season where you feel like you’ve hit a lid—or you’re navigating the push and pull of the old and the new—this episode is packed with insight, encouragement, and actionable advice.In This Episode, You’ll Discover:✅ The 2 most important metrics to monitor when momentum stalls✅ How to create an invite culture that actually sticks✅ What speed of engagement means and why it matters✅ The tipping point percentage that can shift your church’s culture✅ A simple, repeatable system to gain 60+ new volunteers in a year✅ Why retention problems might be rooted in leadership gaps—and how to address themWhether you’re leading a church that’s 89 years old or 8 months old, this conversation will help you refocus on what moves the mission forward—without burning out or giving up.🎧 Listen to Episode 174 now📲 And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes.We’re here to help you lead with fresh vision, healthy systems, and spiritual momentum.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

Hey Pastor,In Episode 173 of the Fly on the Wall Podcast, Chris Sonksen sits down with Pastor Rob for a powerful, behind-the-scenes coaching session on one of the biggest leadership bottlenecks in the church: getting leaders to really lead.If you’ve ever felt stuck because your staff or volunteers have maxed out their capacity—or if your church is growing and you’re not sure how to raise the next layer of leaders—this conversation is exactly what you need.In This Episode, You’ll Discover:✅ What a Leadership Circle is—and how to start one✅ How to identify the next-level leaders hidden in your church✅ The #1 question to ask after every leadership conversation✅ A clear framework to sift, sort, and apprentice future leaders✅ How to release responsibility without losing excellenceChris shares the practical tools he’s used for years to multiply leaders at every level and build churches that thrive with depth—not just size.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

Ever wonder what might be holding you or your team back—and you don’t even see it?In Episode 172 of the Fly on the Wall Podcast, Chris Sonksen sits down with Pastor Travis for a conversation every church leader needs to hear: how to identify and address leadership blind spots before they cost you momentum, people, or growth.Blind spots aren’t just about personal habits—they show up in our team dynamics, our leadership style, and the decisions we avoid making. But the good news? With the right perspective, you can catch them early and lead with greater clarity and confidence.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:How to spot blind spots in yourself and your teamWhy some churches plateau—and how to make changes before that happensHow to have the tough conversations that create real alignmentWhat Gen Z is looking for in a church (and how to prepare for the future)Why entrepreneurial thinking is becoming essential in church leadershipIf you want to lead with greater insight and avoid the traps that keep churches stuck, this episode is for you.👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.

In this week’s Fly on the Wall episode, Chris Sonksen sits down with Pastor Patrick from Ontario Community Church to explore three complex and timely challenges: navigating momentum, honoring church history, and leading through political division.If you’ve ever wrestled with how to grow a historic church without alienating its past—or how to stay centered on Jesus in a community marked by ideological tension—this conversation will speak to your heart and sharpen your leadership.In This Episode, You’ll Discover:✅ How to identify the real source of your church’s momentum—and fuel it wisely ✅ Why honoring tradition doesn’t mean being held hostage by the past ✅ A practical framework for leading through political polarization without losing spiritual clarity ✅ How to spot your church’s tipping point—and leverage it for long-term impactWhether you're pastoring in a border town or a booming city, these insights will help you build sustainable momentum, unite your people, and lead with clarity in the middle of cultural chaos.🎧 Listen to Episode 171 NowGrowing with you, The Church Boom Team👍🏼 Follow us on social media + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/church.boom+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychurchboom+ Website: https://www.churchboom.org👋 About UsFly on the Wall Podcast, presented by Church Boom, takes pastors into a live coaching session with Chris Sonksen, CEO & Founder of Church Boom. Each episode features a pastor, just like you, as they share the challenges they face and get practical advice on how to overcome them.