Field Notes for Transformation

Summary In this conversation, Pastor Wendy Hu-Au invites us into the story beneath the title—her unexpected and deeply formative journey into serving as senior pastor at Metro Hope Church. What emerges isn’t just a leadership story, but a picture of what happens when faith is lived in real community. We talk about the early moments that shaped her, the people who formed her, and why she’s so drawn to the idea of microchurches—not as a strategy, but as a way of being with people. Wendy keeps bringing us back to this: transformation happens in proximity, in honest relationships, in showing up. She names the tension of leadership with refreshing honesty—the vulnerability it requires, the questions it surfaces, and the courage it takes to stay open when easy answers aren’t there. And woven throughout is this quiet but steady conviction: the church has a role to play in pushing back against what diminishes people and partnering in what brings life. Takeaways The gospel has to touch real life, or it’s not good news yet.  Faithful leadership stays open, even when the answers have not been revealed yet.  Resisting empire involves creating inclusive spaces for marginalized voices.    Episode field note: Leading Without All the Answers There’s a moment in leadership most people try to avoid, but most of us live in: I don’t know. The world is not getting simpler. And leadership that depends on certainty is going to keep collapsing under the weight of real life. Maybe faithful leadership isn’t about closing the gap between question and answer. Maybe it’s about becoming the kind of person who can stay in the gap—and not leave others there alone.   Resources and links Hope Metro Church NYC Apex for Youth                             Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc Head to Spiritual Leadership, Inc to take a look at resources for ministry leaders. 

Summary In this conversation, Ryan Tinetti invites us to reconsider ambition, moving away from pressure and performance toward something quieter and deeper. Through personal stories, Scripture, and lived wisdom, he offers a vision of life and leadership anchored in rest, shaped by humility and faithfulness over productivity.   Episode field note: Clarity Over Cleverness When you’re leading change, resist the urge to be subtle. People don’t need hints, they need clear direction. Say it plainly, repeat it often, and make the path forward obvious. It may feel like over-communicating, but in moments of change, clarity is what helps people move.   Resources and links Ryan’s Book: The Quiet Ambition (IvPress)  Slow Productivity by Cal Newport  Godspeed (Documentary)  1 Thessalonians 4:11-12                         Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc Head to Spiritual Leadership, Inc to take a look at resources for ministry leaders. 

Summary:  We’ve normalized something that was never meant to be normal: leading alone.  Rev. Dr. Eun K. Strawser invites us into a conversation about the gift of shared leadership. We talk about the ways we hold onto power, how our metrics are shaping the wrong outcomes, and why the environments we build may be working against the very transformation we long to see. What if shared leadership is exactly what the church was always meant to embody?  Shared leadership isn’t just theory or a strategy. It’s biblical, practical, and transformational to the leader, the church and community.    Takeaways We don’t have a leadership shortage, we have a maturity gap. What you measure is what you’re forming (so measure wisely).  Healthy churches are rooted in people, place and community, not just growth. Formation happens in place, not just in programs.   Episode field note: Take an honest inventory- Who do you actually share power with? Most of us can answer that pretty quickly. And for many leaders, the answer is… we don’t. We may delegate tasks, but we’re not truly sharing power. So the deeper question becomes: Who do you want to share power with and why?   Resources and links Eun’s book: You Were Never Meant to Lead Alone: The Power of Sharing Leadership with IVPress Eun’s website                  Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc Head to Spiritual Leadership, Inc to take a look at resources for ministry leaders. 

In this episode, Dr. Angie Ward invites us into a rich conversation about leadership in uncharted place, where identity, and adaptive courage matter more than ever. She reflects on how her own journey has shaped the way she leads and teaches, and why the internal work of a leader is inseparable from the external work we’re called to do. We explore the shifting landscape of ministry and the kind of emotional intelligence leaders need to navigate change with wisdom and grace.   Takeaways   Leadership begins with who you are. Identity formation and the internal work you’re willing to do shape every decision, relationship, and moment of influence. Today’s landscape demands adaptive courage. With no clear playbook, leaders must normalize change, embrace uncertainty, and respond with creativity rather than anxiety. Presence matters as much as strategy. Emotional intelligence and a non-anxious posture create the conditions for clarity, trust, and transformation.    Episode field note: Do your inner work.  Do your work so you can show up whole, honest and fully yourself in every space you lead.    Resources and links: Angie’s website   Angie’s Book: Uncharted Leadership              Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc Head to Spiritual Leadership, Inc to take a look at resources for ministry leaders. 

In this conversation, Michael Huerter opens up about his unexpected journey into worship and music ministry and the way hybrid worship is reshaping the life of the church. He names both the beauty and the tension of weaving technology into our worship practices—how we can use new tools without losing the human connections that make church feel like church. Michael talks honestly about the challenges leaders face right now: the overwhelm of adapting to online spaces, the pressure to “keep up,” and the fear of getting it wrong. But he also points us toward the opportunities, for example, how music can create connection even through a screen, how creativity can build real community, and how relationships will always matter more than platforms. Takeaways Technology can open surprising doors for connection, but it should never replace the sacred gift of human relationships—it’s here to serve community, not define it. For leaders feeling the weight of constant change, the invitation is simple and steady: focus on relationships first. The tech will follow. Hybrid worship isn’t a stop-gap anymore; it’s a real and lasting expression of church life when we approach it with intention.   Episode field note: Technology and online ministry aren’t replacing relationships but they’re deepening them and reminding us we’re not alone. Even though the pace of new technology can feel overwhelming, this moment is also opening unexpected doors for connection and support in ministry. Online spaces, Zoom calls with mentors, glimpses into a friend’s worship service, shared creative work can actually strengthen the relationships we nurture in person. Instead of choosing between online and offline, we’re invited to see them as a hybrid whole and lean into the creativity, curiosity, and community this season makes possible.   Resources and links Michael’s book: The Hybrid Congregation    Follow Michael on Facebook                           Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc Head to Spiritual Leadership, Inc to take a look at resources for ministry leaders. 

In this conversation, Alan Noble helps us name the weight we all feel in a world that tells us we must be everything on our own. Drawing from his book You Are Not Your Own, Alan invites us to imagine a different kind of freedom, one found not in limitless choice, but in belonging to a loving God. Alan talks about the exhaustion of modern life, the grace of limits, and the practices of gratitude and attention that can reorient us. This is a conversation about recovering our humanity and remembering that we were never meant to carry the world alone.   Takeaways: Freedom isn’t found in endless choice, it’s found in belonging.   Gratitude and attention are small rebellions.   Modern life is heavy, but we were never meant to carry it alone.   The fruit of our labor belongs to God. (Our work has meaning not because it’s impressive, but because it’s offered back to Him.)   Love people for who they are, not for what they achieve.   Episode field note: Get to know someone really well When we move beyond surface conversations and risk true connection, we start to see one another as we are, not as we present ourselves to be. That kind of knowing creates room for compassion, for shared humanity, for healing. Bearing each other’s burdens isn’t about fixing what’s broken. It’s about standing close enough to feel the weight and say, “You’re not alone in this.”   Resources and links: Alan’s website Alan’s book w/ IvPress Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc This episode is brought to you by Spiritual Leadership, Inc Head to spiritual-leadership.org to take a look at resources for ministry leaders. 

In this episode, Bishop Geoffrey Dudley shares what it takes to lead through the storms of life and ministry. Drawing from his experiences in both the military and the church, he talks about calling, resilience, and the connection between leadership and mental health. This conversation explores what authentic leadership looks like when you’re navigating real challenges, for example, crafting vision, managing the movement, and building teams that can bend without breaking.   Takeaways Calling isn’t static, it evolves as we do and is tested, refined by resistance and clarified through rest.  Leadership isn’t proven by what you achieve, it is revealed by how you show up when things get hard.  Authenticity outlasts performance.      Episode field note: Get to know you “Set aside time for self-reflection and get to know you. He already knows you. He fearfully and wonderfully made you. But when you begin to know you, that’s when He can really start working with you.”   Before you can lead others, you have to sit with your own story. Like Jacob, we wrestle with identity, with the question God still asks: Who are you?   Resources and links Bishop Dudley’s website Book: Leading Through Storms with IvPress Follow Bishop Dudley on socials:                   YouTube                  Instagram: @bishopdudleyphd                  Facebook Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc This episode is brought to you by Spiritual Leadership, Inc Head to spiritual-leadership.org to take a look at resources for ministry leaders. 

In this conversation, Dr. Erin Devers discusses the concept of bias, its implications for self-perception and leadership, and the importance of understanding our identity. She emphasizes the role of confirmation bias in decision-making and the need for leaders to cultivate humility. Erin also explores the intersection of faith and bias research, highlighting how community can either amplify or reduce bias.  Takeaways Confirmation bias leads us to seek information that supports our beliefs. Self-perception is often clouded by our biases. Understanding our identity in Christ can help us navigate bias.    Episode field note: The easiest way to cultivate humility is to communicate clearly Erin suggests adding probabilities to your decision making, being honest about where you are - for example, “I’m 80% confident that we should go in this direction.” This approach can help build trust and fosters connection.    Resources and links Erin’s website Erin’s Book: The Unbiased Self                                Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc Head to Spiritual Leadership, Inc to take a look at resources for ministry leaders. 

In this conversation, Ron shares the story of his own call to ministry, the early influences that shaped him, and the lessons he’s in almost 40 years of leading La Croix Church. We dive into what it means to build a healthy church culture, the power of storytelling to draw people into God’s bigger story, and why developing leaders is always worth the risk of giving away ownership, and even letting them learn through failure. As Ron looks toward retirement, he reflects on the hope that drives him: raising up disciples who wholeheartedly follow Jesus. Takeaways Healthy leadership multiplies, it doesn’t center on one person.  Painful seasons often become the very soil where transformation takes root.  The legacy of a leader is discipleship - raising up others, giving them ownership and having that person learn through success and failure.    Episode field note: Stay open to God’s stretching work Ron reminds us that growth is a lifelong posture. That kind of hunger to learn, to receive feedback, to stay open to God’s stretching work, even when it’s uncomfortable.    Resources and links La Croix website: lacroixchurch.org La Croix on socials: Facebook                                   Instagram                                   YouTube                                     Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc Head to Spiritual Leadership, Inc to take a look at resources for ministry leaders. 

In this episode, Lindsay talks with Elaine Howard Ecklund (Rice University) to talk about the intersection of faith and work and why it matters in the places we spend most of our lives. We dig into insights from her new book, co-written with Denise Daniels (Wheaton College), Working for Better: a New Approach to Faith at Work. We talk about her research on how people experience calling in their jobs and what it takes to create systemic change. Elaine and Lindsay explore how leaders and congregations can foster environments where faith isn’t just something we carry to church on Sunday, but something we live out every day, helping workplaces become more redemptive for everyone.   Takeaways Faith can actually make us more committed and effective at work. Everyday employees have the power to shift workplace culture from the inside.  Churches/clergy can help people thrive professionally, not just spiritually.    Field Note: For leaders in the workplace, take the time to understand the specific challenges at work. Find a group of trusted peers (at church for example) and create the space to thoughtfully address similar challenges. For clergy, get to know the kind of work your congregants do and the challenges they face each day. This will have an impact on workplaces and help people bring more of themselves to both their work environment and church.    Resources and links Elaine Howard Eckland’s website: https://www.elainehowardecklund.com/ Working for Better book with InterVarsity Press: https://www.ivpress.com/working-for-better SLI’s Spiritual Leadership Generator Tool: https://www.spiritual-leadership.org/leadershipgenerator/ Head to spiritual-leadership.org to take a look at resources for ministry leaders. 

Melissa Meiner’s story is one where faith, music, and leadership keep weaving together in unexpected ways. From a single invitation that reshaped her family’s faith, to discovering her own calling through music and worship. She talks about what it means to lead across different church settings, the power of hospitality, and why unlearning is sometimes just as important as learning.   Takeaways Creativity plants seeds of calling, often before we notice.  Spiritual formation grows in honesty and shared stories. Calling needs community - surround yourself with people who see it in you. Episode field note: At the center of leadership is love. Never forget your first love.    Resources and links Melissa's Campus Website: https://www.bayhope.church/trinity-campus Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc This episode is brought to you by Spiritual Leadership, Inc Head to spiritual-leadership.org to take a look at resources for ministry leaders. 

In this episode, Lindsay talks with Bryan Sallee, a pastor in Eagle River, Alaska, about what it really takes to cultivate a culture of discipleship in the everyday life of the church. From the challenges of small church leadership to the power of team-based ministry, Bryan shares what he's learning about adaptive leadership, navigating conflict, and building trust. Takeaways Adaptive challenges can’t be solved with yesterday’s strategies.  Discipleship isn’t a pipeline, it’s an ecosystem.  Transformation is best measured through stories Field Note: What Are You Willing to Do Within You? In ministry, it’s easy to chase the big idea. To look out at the future, name the vision, and start sprinting toward it. But what if the real work starts with this question: What are you willing to do within you? As Eugene Peterson says, this is a long obedience in the same direction. And that kind of obedience doesn’t come quickly.   Resources and links Bryan’s church website: https://skylinefamily.com/ Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc This episode is brought to you by Spiritual Leadership, Inc Head to spiritual-leadership.org to take a look at resources for ministry leaders.     

Summary In this conversation, Dr. Arianna Molloy talks about what happens when our deep sense of calling starts to wear thin. She shares her own story of discovering what a healthy calling looks like and how burnout, when left unchecked, can unravel our identity. Arianna reframes calling not as a personal mission to chase but as a relational act. She walks through the signs of burnout, boundaries and why rest is essential.    Takeaways Burnout isn’t all or nothing but creeps in gradually, and recognizing where we are on the spectrum is part of healing.  Burnout from calling can cut deep. It can distort your sense of identity and connection to God.  Rest isn’t what happens after the work, it’s part of the work.    Episode field note: Don’t despise the process of slowing down.  Rest isn’t the absence of work, it’s a vital part of it. Healthy leaders know that excellent work and excellent work together.    Resources and links Arianna’s book, Healthy Calling: IV Press Arianna’s website: https://www.ariannamolloy.com/     Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc This episode is brought to you by Spiritual Leadership, Inc Head to spiritual-leadership.org to take a look at resources for ministry leaders. 

In this episode, Dr. Ellen Marmon talks about her recent essay, “Operationalizing Humility in the Leadership Classroom: Listening, Apologizing, and Other Awkward Practices”.  Ellen invites us to consider leadership as more than a set of competencies but a reflection of who we are becoming. She shares how humility, listening, and the courage to apologize are transformative practices.  Together, we talk about how to create spaces where people feel safe enough to grow, the challenge (and gift) of receiving feedback, and what it means to lead with authenticity. Ellen also offers beautiful reflections on the future of leadership, especially what she’s seeing in emerging generations.   Takeaways Humility isn’t soft; it’s a strength that transforms how we lead and live.  When leaders create safe spaces, trust grows and transformation follows.  Authenticity matters, especially to the next generation.    Episode field note: Laughter and hurry reveal the posture of your leadership. Start by paying attention to two things: laughter and hurry. Ask yourself: When was the last time you laughed at yourself, in a good way, in a way that kept things in perspective? How often does hurry shape your leadership posture? When we don't take time to laugh at ourselves or slow down enough to notice, we lose access to the very posture (humility) that keeps us grounded in God and connected to others.   Resources and links Ellen’s website: https://asburyseminary.edu/faculty/ellen-marmon/ Ellen’s essay is available in the book Crossroads and Classrooms: https://ethicspress.com/products/crossroads-in-classrooms?INTEGRITY Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc This episode is brought to you by Spiritual Leadership, Inc Head to spiritual-leadership.org to take a look at resources for ministry leaders. 

In this conversation, Judy Stevenson invites us into her story—not just the polished parts, but the real, Spirit-led journey of leadership, faith, and unlearning. Judy shares what happened when she chose boldness over comfort, and how that decision cracked open a new season of trust and transformation. We talk about how true leadership isn't about perfect strategy—it’s about people, prayer, and the willingness to be honest about what’s working and what’s not. From empowering young people to lead, to building a culture of generosity, to helping everyday people see themselves as disciple-makers, Judy’s ministry is a masterclass in making room for the Spirit, for community, and for each other.   Takeaways Boldness isn’t a personality trait—it’s a practice Leadership grows best in community, not in isolation Storytelling helps people recognize God’s movement in their own lives Lay leadership isn’t optional Self-examination might be the most underrated leadership habit of all     Episode field note: Practice self examination  So much of leadership comes down to this: Do I love Jesus with all my heart, mind, soul, and strength? And do I love the person in front of me—and the people I haven’t met yet?  Get real about your why. About how your needs are being met.    Resources and links Judy’s church website: https://maclandcommunity.church/about/ Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc This episode is brought to you by Spiritual Leadership, Inc Head to spiritual-leadership.org to take a look at resources for ministry leaders. 

In this conversation, Dr. Brian Russell shares his journey of spiritual transformation, discussing pivotal moments that ignited his passion for growth and helping others. He reflects on the challenges of navigating multiple identities as a scholar, coach, and spiritual leader, and emphasizes the importance of silence and contemplative practices in fostering inner knowing. Brian also explores the difference between mere information and true understanding of the scriptures, advocating for an approach that invites readers to encounter God. He highlights the significance of suffering in shaping compassion and the need for leaders to create transformative spaces for others.    Episode field note: Not through effort, but through presence.  Brian suggests a simple practice to start your day:   1. Begin with Gratitude Write down three or four things you’re truly grateful for. Let God fill the space with joy, memory, and grace. 2. Listen to Your Body Pause. Notice: Where do you feel tension? Butterflies? Tightness? Ask gently: What’s bothering me? Write what comes. Let it surface without needing to solve it. 3. Sit with Jesus in Silence “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.” Then sit in stillness for five minutes. Not to produce — but to be present.       Resources and links: Brian’s website: www.brianrussellphd.com Brian’s book:  Astonished by the Word: Reading Scripture for Deep Knowing Brian’s Instagram: @yourprofessorforlife Brian’s X: @briandrussell Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc This episode is brought to you by Spiritual Leadership, Inc Head to spiritual-leadership.org to take a look at resources for ministry leaders. 

In this conversation, Michael Adam Beck discusses his book 'Never Alone' and the urgent need for community in a world plagued by loneliness. He shares personal experiences, including the loss of his brother, and emphasizes the importance of healing in community rather than isolation. Michael critiques individualistic culture and advocates for a collective approach to healing and faith. He also explores fresh expressions of church, the empowerment of lay leadership, and the significance of self-donation over self-preservation in ministry.   Takeaways Healing can only occur in community, not in isolation. Loneliness is a significant issue in today's society, and the church has a unique role in addressing it. Self-donation is essential for church vitality, contrasting with self-preservation.   Episode field note:  Spend time with Jesus. Every day. Take a Sabbath. Every week. Delight in God. Not because you have to but because you get to.   Resources and links Michael’s website: https://michaeladambeck.com/ Michael’s Book 'Never Alone' - https://www.amazon.com/Never-Alone-Sharing-Community-Lonely/dp/1513815180 Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc This episode is brought to you by Spiritual Leadership, Inc Head to spiritual-leadership.org to take a look at resources for ministry leaders. 

In this conversation, Mark Youngman shares his experiences and insights on leadership, emphasizing the importance of learning from mistakes, embracing messiness, and creating environments that foster growth and transformation. He discusses the balance between transparency and effectiveness in leadership, the significance of small groups, and the core values that guide his ministry. Mark's passion for seeing people thrive in their God-given purpose shines through as he reflects on the journey of discipleship and the impact of community. Takeaways Discipleship is a lifelong journey, not an overnight process. Investing time and effort is crucial for building healthy environments. Thriving communities often embrace messiness and chaos. A strong common vision helps navigate challenges in community.   Field Note: The journey of faith is about Jesus, not metrics or systems.   Resources and links: Discipleship work at Providence Church: https://prov.church/discipleship/ Mark’s Website: https://www.markyoungman.com/ Mark’s Instagram: @youngmanmark Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc This episode is brought to you by Spiritual Leadership, Inc Head to spiritual-leadership.org to take a look at resources for ministry leaders.  

In this conversation, Velma Tim shares her transformative journey into mission work, emphasizing the power of storytelling, the importance of relationships in discipleship, and the role of digital media in reaching and empowering others. She discusses how her experiences shaped her understanding of leadership and collaboration, highlighting the significance of vulnerability and clarity of vision in building effective teams. Velma advocates for a shift towards relational leadership and prioritizing genuine connections over superficial interactions. Takeaways Storytelling connects people from diverse backgrounds to the larger mission. Digital spaces offer unique opportunities for discipleship and connection. Effective discipleship is rooted in genuine relationship.   Episode field note: Sometimes it’s as simple as an invitation. You don’t need a program or permission, just the courage to call someone closer. You might be the voice they are waiting for.   Resources and links: Velma’s websites: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@velmatim3617 Insagram: @velmatim1_official Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc This episode is brought to you by Spiritual Leadership, Inc Head to spiritual-leadership.org to take a look at resources for ministry leaders.

In this conversation, Wes Olds shares his transformative journey of discovering his identity as a 'child of God, person of worth' (COGPOW) during one of the most challenging seasons of his life. He discusses the impact of this realization on his personal and leadership style, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's worth beyond performance. Wes also reflects on the joy of witnessing transformation in others, highlighting the signs of genuine change in ministry and personal relationships.   Takeaways The journey of faith involves continuous learning, and the holy spirit plays a crucial role in personal transformation. Healthy leadership requires intentional practice and behaviors. Covenant making is a foundational practice for building trust and accountability in leadership.   Episode field note: Before the work begins, build how to work together. Introducing a team covenant can be a culture-shaping game changer. Not a legalistic, multi-page document but a simple, shared agreement created in a season of calm to carry the team through inevitable storms. Email: [email protected] for a free covenant building resource.   Resources and links: Wes’ website: https://www.egracechurch.com/ Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc This episode is brought to you by Spiritual Leadership, Inc Head to spiritual-leadership.org to take a look at resources for ministry leaders.

Summary In this conversation, Lindsay and Stephanie Faulkner dive deep into the transformative journey of leadership, spotlighting the power of trust, communication, and cultural awareness. Stephanie opens up about her personal leadership experiences, sharing both the hurdles and triumphs of building meaningful relationships and creating a nurturing environment. Stephanie also explores how faith shapes leadership and the crucial role of self-care in sustaining long-term impact. Takeaways Leadership is not a fixed trait but an evolving journey, shaped over time by lived experiences, challenges, and growth. Trust and communication are the bedrock of any transformative leadership. They create the space for authentic connections, foster collaboration, and pave the way for meaningful change and progress. Cultural differences play a pivotal role in shaping leadership dynamics. Understanding and respecting these differences can unlock deeper relationships, bridge gaps, and foster an environment where diverse perspectives lead to innovative solutions. Faith serves as a powerful guiding force in leadership.     Field Note There is balance between self-care and selflessness, emphasizing that while it's important to take care of oneself, it’s equally essential to remember that life and leadership isn’t solely about individual needs. Stephanie referenced Wesley's Covenant Prayer from his covenant service, a tool she uses to remind herself of her confidence in both her identity and her purpose. Resources and links: Stephanie’s non-profit Nueva Vida: nuevavidaguatemala.org Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc This episode is brought to you by Spiritual Leadership, Inc Head to spiritual-leadership.org to take a look at resources for ministry leaders.

In this conversation, Jacob Armstrong shares his journey of founding Providence Church, discussing the vision behind the church, the hurdles faced in church planting, and the importance of engagement over attendance. He emphasizes the need for leaders to evolve, the significance of creating environments for discipleship, and the challenges of creating a culture that fosters belonging. Jacob also reflects on the barriers that keep people disconnected from the church and offers practical advice for leaders to focus on mission. Takeaways Creating a culture of discipleship is essential for church health and growth. Focusing on the mission helps prevent a closed-loop culture. Identifying and empowering new leaders is crucial.   Episode field note: Emphasis on the importance of deepening personal relationship with Jesus.   Resources and links: Jacob’s website: https://prov.church/ Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc This episode is brought to you by Spiritual Leadership, Inc Head to spiritual-leadership.org to take a look at resources for ministry leaders.

In this conversation, Taylor Foley shares his journey and passion for creating healthy organizational cultures, particularly within church environments. He emphasizes the importance of trust, communication, and resilience in building a vibrant culture. Taylor discusses the challenges faced in shifting culture, the role of leadership, and the necessity of measuring cultural health. He also highlights the significance of aligning values with growth and navigating resistance to change. Ultimately, he expresses hope for the future of ministry and encourages leaders to embrace their role in cultivating a positive culture.   Takeaways Creating irresistible environments is essential for engagement. Leaders must set the tone for their teams. Aligning values with actions is key to cultural integrity.   Episode field note: Reframing leadership as an opportunity rather than an obligation transforms culture. Rather than seeing responsibilities as a checklist, embrace the mindset of “I get to do this”. Lean into people, set the tone, and cultivate an environment where growth thrives.   Resources and links: Taylor’s website: egracechurch.com Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc This episode is brought to you by Spiritual Leadership, Inc Head to spiritual-leadership.org to take a look at resources for ministry leaders.

In this conversation, Matthew Hartsfield shares his journey of embracing transformation and the importance of identity in leadership. He discusses the intersection of pastoring and coaching, emphasizing the need for a growth mindset and psychological safety in creating effective teams. Hartsfield reflects on his early mistakes in leadership, advocating for a culture of transformation through clarity, consistency, and community. He concludes with insights on the future of leadership, highlighting the necessity of adaptation while maintaining a focus on core values and identity.   Takeaways Every individual and organization has an identity issue that must be addressed before transformation can occur. A growth mindset is essential for both pastoring and coaching. Psychological safety is the key factor that differentiates effective teams from ineffective ones. Leaders should avoid the heroic solo leadership model and embrace collaboration. Coaching is about asking the right questions and empowering others to find their own answers. Episode field note: Field Note: The Power of Forward Motion Momentum is a leader's greatest ally. When you're stuck or afraid to act, the key is simple: start something.   Resources and links: Matthew’s website: https://www.bayhope.church/ Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc This episode is brought to you by Spiritual Leadership, Inc Head to spiritual-leadership.org to take a look at resources for ministry leaders.

In this conversation, Jorge Acevedo shares his journey from nearly four decades in pastoral ministry to becoming a leadership coach. He discusses the evolution of his calling, the importance of transitioning from heroic solo leadership to generative team leadership, and the essential qualities that contribute to resilient and vital ministries. Jorge emphasizes the need for experimentation, sustainability, and the role of personal growth in effective leadership. He also highlights the significance of facing pain for growth, identifying bright-eyed leaders, and cultivating a deep walk with God as foundational to future ministry success.   Takeaways Vitality in ministry requires clear focus and processes. Experimentation is key to adapting in ministry contexts. Building adaptive teams is necessary for future challenges. A deep walk with God is foundational for leadership.   Field Note: Lead from Surrender True leadership begins with surrender. Cultivate your walk with God daily, embracing the easy yoke of Jesus rather than bearing the weight of outcomes.   Resources and links: Jorge’s website: https://www.jorgeacevedo.com/ Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc This episode is brought to you by Spiritual Leadership, Inc Head to spiritual-leadership.org to take a look at resources for ministry leaders.

Summary In this conversation, Len Wilson shares insights on creativity, its decline from childhood to adulthood, and the importance of fostering a creative environment in leadership and ministry. Wilson emphasizes the need for safe spaces for creativity, the vulnerability involved in creating original work, and the importance of personal discipline in nurturing creativity. In this conversation, Lindsay and Len explore the themes of creativity, leadership, and innovation within ministry. They discuss the importance of recognizing one's own creativity, the balance between tradition and innovation, and the evolving nature of ministry in response to cultural changes. Len shares insights on navigating the creative process, emphasizing the need for perseverance through challenges and the value of collaboration in fostering new ideas.   Takeaways Creativity is not limited to the arts; it encompasses original ideas with value. Leaders should foster safe environments for creative expression. Team-based solutions are essential in addressing complex problems. Innovation in ministry requires understanding cultural shifts. Encouragement from others is vital in the creative journey.   Episode field note:  The key to the creative process is to keep going. Trust the process, and if you believe the idea is God-given, persevere through the difficulties. While the final product may never match the lofty vision you started with, it will still reflect the faith, effort, and creativity poured into it.    Resources and links: Len’s website: lenwilson.substack.com/ Books mentioned by Len: https://www.inviteministries.org/authors/len-wilson/ Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc This episode is brought to you by Spiritual Leadership, Inc Head to spiritual-leadership.org to take a look at resources for ministry leaders.   

Summary In this conversation, Lindsay and Leanne explore the transformative power of ministry and leadership. Leanne shares impactful stories from her work at The Bridge, emphasizing the importance of connecting people to God's love and the mission of building disciples. They discuss the challenges of community transformation, the significance of empowering individuals' gifts, and the necessity of creating a culture of growth. Leanne reflects on her evolving understanding of leadership, the importance of teamwork, and the critical need for rest and reflection in ministry. The conversation concludes with insights on embracing vulnerability as a leader and the future of ministry.   Takeaways The mission of ministry is to connect people to God's love. Creating disciples of Jesus involves intentional relationships and community. Vulnerability in leadership fosters a safe space for others. The future of ministry may require new approaches and adaptability.   Episode field note: Embracing Vulnerability in Leadership As leaders, we are often tempted to hide the hard parts of our own transformation, fearing it will disqualify us in the eyes of those we lead. But if the mission is transformation for the sake of the gospel, we cannot separate ourselves from the process. We must live out the very change we ask of others. Resources and links: Leanne’s website:  www.thebridgegulfcoast.org Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc This episode is brought to you by Spiritual Leadership, Inc Head to spiritual-leadership.org to take a look at resources for ministry leaders. 

Summary In this conversation, Bryan D. Sims discusses the importance of creating space for authentic discipleship within church environments. He emphasizes that many churches struggle due to a lack of genuine disciples of Jesus and outlines practical steps for leaders to foster healthy environments that encourage spiritual growth. The discussion also touches on the future of leadership in ministry, advocating for humility, collaboration, and a focus on abiding in Jesus as the key to fruitful ministry. Takeaways     Creating environments that foster transformation is crucial. Practical steps can help create healthy environments for growth. Leaders must model vulnerability and accountability in their teams. Shared leadership is essential for overcoming challenges.     Resources and links:   Bryan’s website: https://www.bryandsims.com/   Bryan’s new book: Creating Space: Cultivating Environments of Jesus to Thrive and Multiply   Follow Bryan: @bryansims   Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc   This episode is brought to you by Spiritual Leadership, Inc   Head to spiritual-leadership.org to take a look at resources for ministry leaders.