The Kubik Report

This is the third in an ongoing series by Greg Thomas about the leadership lessons of America's Founding Fathers.  This is the final segment about George Washington, where we discuss the most important leadership lessons.   1. Character/Integrity 2. Power should be held lightly 3. Adaptability leads to perfection 4. Surround yourself with strong independent thinkers 5. Unity  requires humility 6. Symbolism matters 7 A leader keeps growing!       

There is a growing concern across many workplaces that emotional intelligence—often called EQ—is becoming less common or less developed in professional settings, especially among younger or newly hired employees. While broad generalizations should be avoided, many managers, educators, and organizational leaders are noticing shifts in communication style, conflict resolution, resilience, and interpersonal awareness. Part of this change comes from the environment in which people have grown up and learned to work. Digital communication has replaced much face-to-face interaction. Remote work, texting, social media, and online education have created efficiency, but they have also reduced opportunities to develop the subtle human skills that come from reading body language, handling awkward conversations, listening deeply, and navigating disagreement in person. Another factor is that modern education and hiring systems heavily reward measurable cognitive performance—grades, certifications, technical competence, analytical ability, and productivity metrics. These emphasize IQ. Yet organizations increasingly discover that high IQ alone does not guarantee effectiveness in leadership, teamwork, or long-term contribution. Emotional intelligence includes qualities such as: Self-awareness Self-control Empathy Social awareness Ability to receive correction Adaptability Conflict management Encouragement of others Humility and maturity under pressure These are difficult to quantify on a résumé, but they often determine whether a person succeeds over time. A workplace can survive a lack of brilliance more easily than it can survive chronic emotional dysfunction. One highly intelligent but emotionally volatile employee can damage morale, create division, exhaust leadership, and reduce trust across an entire team. By contrast, a person of moderate technical skill but high emotional maturity often becomes invaluable because they stabilize relationships, solve problems collaboratively, and inspire confidence. Daniel Goleman, whose work popularized emotional intelligence, argued that EQ becomes increasingly important as people rise into leadership. A company may hire someone for IQ, but they are often promoted—or dismissed—because of EQ. This does not mean IQ is unimportant. Intelligence quotient reflects reasoning ability, memory, analysis, and problem-solving capacity. Modern organizations absolutely need technically competent people. But IQ without emotional intelligence can produce arrogance, impatience, poor listening, relational blindness, and inability to lead people effectively. The strongest leaders tend to combine both: intellectual clarity and emotional steadiness, analytical skill and empathy, competence and character. In many ways, emotional intelligence is what allows intelligence itself to become constructive rather than destructive. There is also a spiritual dimension to this discussion. Wisdom is not merely accumulation of knowledge. The book of Proverbs repeatedly distinguishes between knowledge and wisdom. A person may know many things and still lack discretion, restraint, kindness, or understanding. The modern workplace increasingly rewards speed, efficiency, and technical expertise, yet human organizations still function on trust, respect, emotional stability, and relational maturity. Machines can process information. Human beings must still inspire, reconcile, encourage, and lead. The future may belong not merely to the smartest people in the room, but to those who can combine intelligence with emotional depth, humility, and wisdom.

In this episode of The Kubik Report, Victor Kubik speaks with journalist and columnist Melvin Rhodes about a remarkable convergence of world events: King Charles III’s address to the United States Congress, rising tensions involving Iran, and troubling reports of another assassination attempt involving the President of the United States. Melvin brings a unique transatlantic perspective, having lived in the United States for many years while maintaining deep roots in England. Together, Victor and Melvin explore how events may be viewed differently on each side of the Atlantic and what these differences reveal about national identity, media interpretation, and global stability. The conversation begins with King Charles’ visit and its symbolic importance. Does the monarchy still carry diplomatic influence? Is the “special relationship” between the United States and the United Kingdom still strong, or is it becoming more ceremonial than practical? Victor and Melvin also examine the growing tensions with Iran and whether the U.S. and U.K. remain closely aligned in their foreign policy goals, especially in a post-Brexit world. The discussion then turns to political instability in America and how assassination attempts are perceived internationally. What effect do such events have on America’s image as a stable democracy? Finally, Melvin reflects on the role of media narratives, the fragility of alliances, and what thoughtful observers should be watching beyond the headlines. In uncertain times, this episode invites listeners to step back, think deeply, and seek understanding through informed conversation.

April 26, 2026 marks the 40th anniversary of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster—one of the most catastrophic man-made events in history. The explosion released more than 400 times the radioactive fallout of the Hiroshima bomb, leaving a lasting scar on the environment and on human lives. In this episode, we reflect on how Chernobyl was not just a technical failure, but a profound moral one—where flawed systems, suppressed truth, and human error converged with devastating consequences. Yet amid the chaos, stories of courage emerged: firefighters, plant workers, and ordinary citizens who risked—and often gave—their lives to contain the disaster. Michael Snyder offers sobering insights into what Chernobyl reveals about the trajectory of human systems and the vulnerabilities we still face today. Join us as we explore the lessons of Chernobyl—lessons about leadership, accountability, resilience, and the enduring capacity for courage when it is needed most.

In this series on the 250th anniversary of the 1776 Declaration of Independence, Greg Thomas and I discuss more about the leadership qualities of our Founding Fathers. This is part two of three-part series about Washington. Other leaders to follow.  

Mark Kellner: Spiritual Formation in History and in Our Time In this episode, I sit down with veteran journalist Mark Kellner for a thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation on the meaning of spiritual formation—both historically and in today’s rapidly changing world. Mark brings decades of experience covering faith and culture, including his work with The Washington Times, The New York Post, and, currently, The Epoch Times. His perspective offers a unique lens on how religious life and personal belief are evolving in our time. 🔍 What We Discuss What is Spiritual Formation? We explore this increasingly used term—how it describes the journey of coming to faith and developing a deeply personal, internalized relationship with Jesus Christ. God’s Work in Human Lives A discussion on how God calls individuals and how we, as believers, can help guide others—step by step—toward deeper understanding and commitment. A “Ladder” of Growth We talk about the process of nurturing faith: from initial interest to active involvement, and ultimately toward the promise of eternal life. The Search of Gen Z An insightful look at how younger generations are searching for meaning—often outside of their upbringing—and what that means for the future of faith and the Church. Spiritual formation is not just a concept—it is a lifelong journey. In a world full of uncertainty, people are still searching for truth, purpose, and connection with God. Understanding that process helps us better serve, teach, and connect with others.

In this episode of The Kubik Report, Victor Kubik sits down with longtime colleague Steve Buchanan to discuss the convergence of significant world events and their prophetic implications. Steve, known for his work with the World News in Prophecy Review newsletter, brings thoughtful insight into global trends through a biblical lens. Together, they explore rising tensions in the Middle East—particularly around the strategically vital Straits of Hormuz—and consider how these developments may fit into the broader framework of end-time prophecy. A key part of the discussion centers on the Five Pillars of Prophecy, which provide a structured framework for understanding how major prophetic themes align with current world conditions. The conversation moves beyond headlines into deeper, timeless questions: Where are we in the flow of history? Who are we as God’s people in this moment? Links: https://worldnewsandprophecyreview.com/2026/04/06/are-two-end-time-trends-converging/ Subscribe to Steve Buchanan's World News and Prophecy at https://worldnewsandprophecyreview.com/home/    

Carol Emerson Hill and I, who have both officially "retired," discuss how we personally have fared through this transition.  In our careers we have counselled many people about retirement and now have to go through it ourselves.  Carol's credentials are stellar as she worked in aspects of career management. Here are just some of her skills and experience: Senior Consultant, Career Management, Executive Coach | Career Coach | Resume & Interview   Consultant, Career & Retirement Management, Executive Coach | Career Coach | Resume & Interview Coaching. Right Management, global leader in talent and career management workforce solutions within Manpower Right Management, global leader in talent and career management Senior Career Consultant, Career Management, Silicon Valley 2011- 2019. Carol can be reached at  [email protected] 

In this episode of The Kubik Report, Victor Kubik speaks with Joanna (Fahey) Bradford about the life and legacy of her father, Bob Fahey—a respected minister who served congregations across the United States, South Africa, Canada, and Australia. Through personal stories and heartfelt reflections, Joanna shares what it was like to grow up in a ministry family, the challenges and blessings of international service, and the enduring lessons her father left behind.

In this thought-provoking episode of The Kubik Report, Victor Kubik sits down with AI researcher and theologian Howard Davis to explore a bold and controversial claim: The science behind artificial intelligence challenges the idea that the human mind evolved by random processes. Drawing from hands-on experience in AI development and decades of theological reflection, Howard presents a series of logical and mathematical arguments that raise profound questions about the origin of intelligence, the nature of thought, and the limits of evolutionary theory. This conversation bridges science, philosophy, and faith—inviting listeners to reconsider assumptions about how intelligence begins.

Discussion with a longtime friend for more than 40 years who is an AI scientist, theologian and philosopher. He explains that AI is built on the foundations of mathematics, logic, and pattern recognition. It is also the culmination of mathematics, philosophy, linguistics, computer science, and theology.  

The Christian Passover is a profound time of self-examination to align ourselves with the nature of Jesus Christ.  I earlier said these words in the midst of the COVID Pandemic where we were greatly troubled.  We are troubled now with different kinds of tribulation.  Take time to make this a robust new start with Jesus Christ.

Natasha Teague has been the coordinator of Russian-language literature at the United Church of God since 2011, when Senior Pastor Johnnie Lambert arranged for her to come to the United States to work at the Home Office.  I have known her since meeting her in Estonia in 2000.  We have worked together on Russian projects through the years.  She discusses weathering the Chornobyl crisis and her coming to know God.

Greg Thomas starts a series on Leadership during our 250 Anniversary as a nation.  Today we discuss the Life and Leadership George Washington part 1.  What can we learn?  Hear all of Greg's The Kubik Report Podcasts at  https://vkubik.podbean.com/category/greg-thomas  

Daria Jmill is an acquaintance of mine going back 70 years in St. Paul, MN.  Both our parents were WWII refugees who fortunately, found their way to the United States in 1949 with us as children who were born in the camp.  We talk about Ukraine, St. Paul, MN, Somalis, and other things that you may find interesting.

Rex Sexton and I talk about Alfred the Great was King from 871 to 899 and is the only English monarch ever given the title “the Great.” He ruled during one of the most dangerous periods in early English history, when Viking (Danish) armies were conquering much of Anglo-Saxon England. He launched the greatest literary Renaissance that Anglo-Saxon England ever knew.  He was a seasoned warrior, a scholar, a poet, a lawgiver, an architect of towns and ships, and a zealous Christian.   Rex and I talk about lessons we could learn about us and our heritage from him.  

The United States and Israel have launched a major joint military offensive against Iran, labeled Operation Epic Fury by U.S. authorities. It began early today, February 28, 2026 with extensive airstrikes and missile strikes targeting key Iranian leadership, military, and strategic infrastructure.   Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the Supreme Leader has been killed.   Michael Snyder and I talk about prophetic implications as the Kingdom of the South Rises. Read Mike Snyder's blog http://www.seekingtheway.net   

Michael Snyder discusses the very dangerous state of the world right now.  Iran is about to be attacked. Europe is distancing itself from the US umbrella and now taking defense matters into their own hands.  Germany is calling of Kriegstüchtig meaning "war-ready" and ready to face army against army.  This has not happened since World War II.  Russia's greatest fears are coming upon them.  The United States will no longer determine Europe's role.   Michael Snyder has been a long-time writer and analyst, and this analysis of what's happening in the world today is one to give serious thought to. Read his blog at  https://www.seekingtheway.net/    

Parenting in today's world is not easy.  Technology changes fast. Cultural pressures are intense. Social media shapes our children in ways we didn't expect.   Dr. Kayleen Schreiber and I talk about her online community that combines faith, science and real-life parenting.  More than 300 users have joined in the first year. You can reach Dr. Kayleen Schreiber at [email protected] How to join?  Here's the link: https://thoughtful-parents-grove.mn.co/share/TXNSy3sbnIHl71ex      

Rebekah Drury is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with the state of Ohio. She also has a Master of Arts degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University.  Rebekah and I discuss how to work through crises and tragedies that will come into our lives.  She is a Christian therapist and gives valuable insights for us to consider about inevitable events that will face.

From January 14 through February 4, Derrick and Cherry Pringle, along with Bev and me, drove 2000 km through Zambia, visiting churches and our brothers and sisters whom we haven't seen in seven years.  We describe what we saw, heard and did.  

My in-person interview with Rodrick Epomba in Mufulira, Zambia.  He is the pastor of four churches in Solwezi, where he lives, as well as Mufumbwe, Manyinga, and Zambesi.   Catch a glimpse here of life in this part of the world. Rodrick also hosts a weekly radio program on Solwezi FM, a station with a potential audience of more than 120,000 people, plus online streaming.  He gets a good response and talks to people on the air. He is also the youth and camp director for the United Church of God in Zambia.  We have known Rodrick Epomba from previous visits.  This is our first meeting in seven years.  We are here in Mufulira for a three-day pastoral conference with all of Zambia’s five pastors and two deacons, during which we discussed pastoral skills and church administration. 

Michael Snyder is a long-time marketing and PR professional who started his career in Los Angeles, building brands and market share through up-to-date strategies and tactics.   Michael Snyder is a former Senior Writer for the Plain Truth Magazine who has written many articles on geopolitical and prophetic topics.   We discuss troubling dynamics in the current news about what is happening in geopolitics now , what is appearing and what could certainly happen. We discuss his latest posting on his SEEKINGTHEWAY.NET blog where he posted information that you need to know and understand.    You can reach Michael Snyder through his blog or through our this podcast at  [email protected] Currently he is CEO of Public Relations firm MEK – Marketing Engagement Knowledge here in Indianapolis.

We continue with the last six Essential Qualities of Effective Leaders which are  Collaboration Influence Integrity Courage Gratitude Resilience Hear part one here!  

In our first 23 podcasts we have now had 106,416 YouTube views!   Continuing on with our 24th podcast in this first of two parts, Greg Thomas outlines the first six of 12 ESSENTIAL QUALITIES of effective leaders which are:  Self-Awareness Respect Compassion Vision Communication Learning Agility

David Cobb has written an article for Compass Check magazine for teens entitled "Practical Tools For Navigating Anxiety."   It is not just for teens.  Mike Snyder is a crisis communication professional who has worked with mental health care. We discuss three tools you can use to reduce worry. Books recommended in the podcast: Redefining Anxiety: What It Is, What It Isn't, and How to Get Your Life Back is a concise guide by Dr. John Delony, published in November 2020. Drawing from his personal experiences and over two decades in counseling and research, Dr. Delony addresses common misconceptions about anxiety and offers practical steps for managing it. Rewire Your Anxious Brain: How to Use the Neuroscience of Fear to End Anxiety, Panic, and Worry is a comprehensive guide co-authored by psychologist Catherine M. Pittman, PhD, and Elizabeth M. Karle, MLIS. Published in January 2015, the book delves into the neurological underpinnings of anxiety, focusing on the roles of the amygdala and cortex in the brain. It offers evidence-based strategies to manage and alleviate anxiety by addressing both the primal fear responses and the cognitive aspects of worry

PART 2 with Archeologist Kurt Hoyer as he describes new finds in well-excavated Jerusalem.   December 23, 2025

Archeologist Kurt Hoyer talks about recent findings in Jerusalem that give clearer understanding to understanding the secrets of this focal point in history and future.  Here is first of two parts.

This podcast is for women, men and families. This is the most compelling podcast I've ever done.  I speak to Glendie Loranger who is the Executive Director of Life Services in Spokane, Washington.  She tells a transformative story of coming out of brokenness from serious mistakes made in her teen years to become a leader of a ministry and service to families who have been scarred by the curse of abortion. Glendie Loranger Executive Director Life Services Spokane 509.327.0701 [email protected] www.lifeservices.org  

Ken Murray and I are shocked with the rest of the world, and express our thoughts in this most sobering time after a gunman and his son kill 15 people at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia.  The targeted people were Jews who were observing the joyous Jewish festival of Hanukkah.  We, along with the whole world, are sobered by this horrendous act and share meaning to give understanding and hope....

I found a 30-year-old cassette containing my ice-breaker address to the newly formed Lafayette, Indiana, United Church of God congregation.  It contains an interesting history of our formation and a prediction of our aspirations.  The date of this address is January 20, 1996.  

Ken Murray and I discuss the most common practice of Christians:  Prayer.  Prayer is mentioned 650 times in the Bible and is associated with every faithful man and woman.  Here is some good advice to keep your prayer life active and effective.  This is how you get to "Know the Lord."  

Melvin Rhodes goes through his latest almost (weekly) newsletter that has more than 2,500 subscribers.  You can subscribe, too, at  https://melvinrhodes.wordpress.com/ Melvin and I talk about when his family almost migrated from the U.K. to Australia.   Then we talk about war in Ukraine and world debt.   Melvin is a long-time news analyst, author and part of our family.      

I started my first website  www.kubik.org in 1996.  One of the first posts/blogs/essays was on Thanksgiving Day 1996.   I give you an audio version of it 30 years later. 

Today we continue discussing personal defeat and how to use the Power of God's Spirit to overcome it.   This is Podcast number 23 with Greg. Earlier, we talked about overcoming setbacks with secular tools. Today we talk talk about using God's Power.  See all of Greg Thomas's podcasts at https://vkubik.podbean.com/category/greg-thomas What is the right approach regarding our personal disappointments and mistakes? We live in a world of increased anxiety and emotional stress. Since the pandemic, many studies have shown a dramatic rise in loneliness and discouragement. Many people have given up on life because of their negative life experiences, including addictions, relationship issues, or guilt from past serious mistakes. Order Greg Thomas' book at Amazon:  Making Life's Puzzle Pieces Fit

Discussion with Howard Marchbanks, Certified Financial Planner and I talk about Year-end Charitable Giving. There are several things that you may not be aware of that could help you and a charity. Howard is also a UCG elder living in Santa Ana, California. Signs of trusted charities Charity rating services Leverage what you give Donor-advised funds Giving appreciated stocks Matching campaigns Legacy and estate gifts Lessons from giving Documents referred to in this podcast in downloadable PDF Income Tax Charitable Deduction Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCD)

Human beings were designed to have a day off to function.  Ken Murray takes us back to creation of the Sabbath which is revealed in Genesis 1.  The 7-day week is universal.  We also touch on the life of Charlie Kirk and his discovering the Sabbath as vital to keep from being burned out.  

Mark Kellner and I discuss his October 24, 2025, article in The Epoch Times where he states that more "Americans now say religion is gaining influence in national life than at any point in the past 15 years," which comes from a Pew Research Center report on October 20, 2025. Mark and I have been friends for 30 years and have discussed many topics related to faith and the Churches of God.  He is a well-known author and a great person to talk to.  This is our third podcast.   Career highlights Kellner began writing about issues of faith and freedom in 1983.   From March 11, 1991, to January 18, 2014, he wrote some 1,200 weekly—and for about 18 months, semi-weekly—technology columns for The Washington Times.   He authored a religion-news column for The Washington Times titled “Higher Ground,” which debuted January 25, 2013.   From February 2014 to September 2015, he served as national reporter for the Deseret News in Salt Lake City.   From 2021-2024, Kellner was a national “Faith & Family” reporter for The Washington Times.   He is now based in Mesquite, Nevada.  Areas of focus & contributions Kellner has covered technology topics (especially earlier in his career) and later moved strongly into religion, faith institutions, family issues, religious liberty, and cultural trends.   He has also contributed to other outlets such as Religion News Service, Christianity Today, and various magazines/newspapers.  1 Kellner is a philatelist (stamp collector) and is a member of philatelic societies including the Royal Philatelic Society London, the Collectors Club of New York, and a life member of the American Philatelic Society.   Notable publications He is the author of God on the Internet.   He also wrote a book in the “For Dummies®” series (about WordPerfect or other software) during his technology-writing era.  Significance in journalism Kellner’s career reflects a breadth of reporting: from technology journalism to deep engagement with faith and family issues in the public square. His long tenure at The Washington Times (both in tech and faith reporting) gives him significant institutional memory in those realms. Because of his religion and family-focus work, his writing often intersects with cultural, social and values-based dimensions of journalism. Current status As of his website update (2024–25), Kellner remains a freelance journalist available for assignments and has experience covering swing-state elections (for the New York Post in Nevada).  He continues to maintain his portfolio of stories on faith, family, culture and technology.  

Guy Swenson was my assistant at the Worldwide Church of God for the last two years. We reminisce 30 years later.  It was a painful time that tore apart many relationships and tested faith not from the outside, but from within,

Scott Ashley and I talk about the release of the hostages in Gaza on the day before the Last Great Day.  Scott reminisces about being in Israel when the hostages were taken, a mere 50 miles away. Scott speaks about long-term peace projection for the Middle East and the world.   See the earlier podcast done a few days after the hostages were taken. https://vkubik.podbean.com/e/scott-ashley-return-from-israel-and-witnessing-the-hamas-attack/  

After doing the first podcast about Estonia a few days ago, I thought of a few more things.  Give a listen to this 9 minute microcast. 

Greg Dullum and I have known each other for 60 years going back to Minneapolis/St. Paul days of old.  We discuss his continuous newsletter Sabbath Scoop that he has produced in all this time.  Also we discuss his recent article "The Widows Might."   Greg is an elder in the United Church of God serving in Cape Girardeau, Missouri and can be reached at [email protected].

These are my personal observations from my 60th Feast of Tabernacles.  This one was in Estonia, a country between Russia, the Baltic Sea, and the Nordic countries.  70 of us had a wonderful experience the first two weeks of October 2025.  

Ken Murray and I discuss one of the shortest letters in the Bible, which gives us a wealth of advice about relationships and reconciliation that we could all benefit from.  Download notes about this podcast

The ten days between the Feast of Trumpets and the Day of Atonement are called the Days of Awe.  Also known as the Days of Repentance.  The fast day of Atonement is considered the most sacred day among many Jews.   Five years ago almost exactly I gave a sermon on the Day of Atonement in Cincinnati, Ohio about our visit to an event in Washington D.C. known as The Return which featured Jonathan Cahn who spoke along with many others about the need for our nation to return to God.  See full video version on YouTube at https://youtu.be/p4mS8qfQOxE  

My third podcast with Kurt Hoyer about his archeological work in Israel.  The first extra biblical links to the book of Isaiah have been found.  We talk about Scarabs Seals and Bullae.  Seals are the objects, often rings used to mark a document with the ancient equivalent of a signature, scarabs, can be seals but are usually carved in the shape of a scarab beetle. Scarabs also have names of powerful Egyptian kings on them and were used for good luck charms. (Not really going to talk about scarabs much) Bullae are small dabs of clay that were used to seal documents and other things. They have the impression of the seal on them.  Why care?  Seals and bullae give us attestation of the names of biblical figures. Most recently an official from the court of Josiah, was found in Jerusalem.  Other Biblical names found include. Hezekiah, Jeroboam II, Ahaz, Isaiah, and Baruch, among others.   Link to the st. Anthony Liturgical House where Kurt Hoyer is teaching. https://www.stanthonysliturgicalhouse.org/product-page/bib050-introduction-to-archaeology-for-bible-student-ceu          

Bryan McClain holds a Master of Science in computer science and a Bachelor of Science in applied mathematics.  He took machine learning as part of graduate school in mathematical theory.   He has designed and trained his own models and has done research into how various AI models work.  Bryan works as a senior software engineer for an Indianapolis tech company. In our podcast, we talk about Artificial Intelligence, what it is and what it is NOT.  Humans are conscious, AI is not.   Does AI bring us closer to eternity, God, and a fascinating future?     

Julie Zutz Brown has conducted various surveys for the United Church of God for the past 17 years.  She and her team have read and analyzed the various surveys.  Some surveys have been conducted by members, others by the ministry, employees, and other entities within the Church.  Darris McNeely is chairman of the Strategic Planning Committee, which uses surveys to help the Council of Elders develop a Strategic and Operating Plan.  Every three years, the plan goes through a significant update.  This year is one of those years.  Julie is a senior executive at Johnson Controls, driving innovation in HVAC, security, and fire solutions. She is Vice President of the Global Customer Office, responsible for deploying a customer-centric culture.  

Free speech.  Have we ever really had it?  When did freedom of free speech start?  What is the future of free speech?  What about free speech in the World Tomorrow?  We need your thoughts on this one.....

Recorded two days after the assassination of Charlie Kirk.  Rex gives insight into what real and meaningful Christianity and prefaces it with a tribute to  Charlie Kirk.