Ever wondered why negative feedback can be the ultimate game-changer for leaders? Join us as we sit down with Ryan Ermeling, leader of Parent Pulse and the Chair of the Board of Regents at Concordia University, Irvine. Ryan unveils the surprising benefits of actively seeking out and embracing negative feedback to foster growth and self-improvement. Listen to personal anecdotes that show how cultivating a culture of open feedback can transform leadership effectiveness and build stronger, more self-aware leaders.

We then shift gears to tackle the expanding role of pastors, who now find themselves navigating responsibilities beyond the pulpit. From financial oversight to team development, pastors today need a blend of spiritual and business acumen. Ryan shares practical advice on leveraging lay leaders and engaging with business professionals to form advisory boards that can elevate pastoral leadership. Discover how pastors can benefit from tapping into expertise in finance and risk management to effectively manage growing congregations.

Finally, we dive into the art of building effective nonprofit boards, drawing on the rich experiences of Concordia. Ryan explains the elements that make a board successful, emphasizing the need for diverse skill sets and a deep passion for the organization's mission. Learn about the critical relationship between the board chair and the CEO, and how their partnership can drive an organization forward. With stories from Christ Greenfield and CUI, this episode provides valuable insights into the dynamics necessary for a fruitful board-pastor collaboration.

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What does it take to challenge leadership practices and still maintain your faith? Reverend Dr. Scott Seidler shares his transformative journey, from confronting the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod's leadership in 2016 to revitalizing his ministry in Arizona amid the challenges of COVID-19. We delve into the importance of having a bold vision and holding oneself accountable, especially when faced with emotional and organizational turmoil. Reverend Dr. Seidler also offers insights into the contentious evolution of the prior approval list, a topic that touches on the deep-rooted issue of trust among church leaders.

Ever wondered how to balance international missions with the growth of local congregations? Reverend Dr. Seidler discusses the delicate act of nurturing local U.S. churches while maintaining a global mission focus. Introducing the concept of "love achievement," which blends metrics with the inherent love and faith that should drive church efforts, he underscores the necessity of active engagement and follow-up with potential new members. A powerful personal story illustrates these challenges, emphasizing that meaningful outreach and efficient ministry practices are crucial for genuine church growth.

As we look to the future of American Christianity, the conversation shifts to the alarming trends of declining congregations within the LCMS. Reverend Dr. Seidler highlights the urgent need for strategic revitalization and a rethinking of pastoral training to sustain active congregations. He calls for courageous leadership and accountability through programs like Redeem 21, urging pastors to remain bold in their gospel proclamation despite fatigue. Tune in for a passionate discussion on overcoming systemic issues and fostering a hopeful future for the church through intentional growth and dedicated leadership.

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What happens when you bring ministry to an eclectic and diverse mountain town? Reverend Dr. Jeff Skopak shares his remarkable journey serving at Emmanuel Lutheran Church and School in Asheville, North Carolina. Jeff unveils the unexpected joys and unique challenges of ministering in a community where the cultural, social, and political landscape is as varied as the Blue Ridge Mountains themselves. From engaging with pre-Christian families to partnering with Evangelism Explosion, Jeff's stories highlight the profound impact of meeting people where they are—even if that means reaching out near an LGBTQ bar. This episode promises to leave you with a renewed perspective on inclusivity and outreach in modern ministry.

Join us as we reflect on the highs and lows of pastoral work, emphasizing the significance of personal connections in ministry. Drawing from experiences in New Jersey, we explore how mental and physical health are crucial for pastors and the unique role they play in people's lives. We also tackle the frustrations of dealing with egos and cleaning up past pastoral messes, while celebrating the growth of faith within communities. Finally, we dive into the complexities of unity within the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod, underscoring the importance of loving, constructive dialogue to build a more united church body. This heartfelt conversation is not to be missed!

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