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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Reverend Erik Gauss from Cross Lutheran Church and School in Illinois, takes us through his 17-year ministry journey, shedding light on his dedication to developing lay leadership. Erik recounts his personal experiences and the various initiatives like huddles, men's groups, and leadership groups that he has spearheaded. We also navigate the unsettling trend of some pastors discouraging lay participation in the Great Commission, probing into its roots and possible ramifications.

Have you ever wondered about the burdens pastors carry? In our insightful conversation, we tackle the complex issue of pastoral accountability and the fear it generates. Many pastors feel immense pressure, believing they'll be held accountable in heaven if things go awry in their churches. This chapter delves into finding a balance between pastoral responsibility and church member empowerment. We discuss the historical context and cultural shifts that have influenced this dynamic, and share personal insights into overcoming frustrations with church leadership.

As we navigate societal challenges, the church's role in healing cultural ills becomes ever more critical. We discuss the necessity of contextualizing the gospel for modern audiences, and share a transformative story of faith impacting a secular business. The concept of "huddles" as leadership development tools is explored, highlighting the importance of creating safe spaces for spiritual growth. Finally, we touch on the acute shortage of ordained pastors in the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod (LCMS) and brainstorm potential solutions. Wrapping up, we envision the future of the LCMS, emphasizing the need to refine current challenges while maintaining the purity of the gospel.

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Can AI truly transform the way ministry operates within the church? Join us on this thought-provoking episode of Lead Time Hot Topic Friday! We uncover the revolutionary potential of artificial intelligence in ministry alongside my good friend Matt Engel. We dive into the many facets of AI integration, from streamlining administrative tasks like email management and chatbots to enriching sermon content and crafting impactful social media snippets. But it's not all about efficiency; we stress the crucial importance of maintaining human connections and community engagement. We argue that AI should serve as a tool to enhance, not replace, the personal touch that is essential in ministry.

We also tackle the broader implications of AI for church leadership and governance. How can we ensure that these advanced technologies align with our theological traditions and ethical standards? Matt and I discuss the necessity of a solid theological framework and the role of church leaders in the thoughtful implementation of AI tools. Moreover, we reflect on historical shifts in technology, such as the advent of spreadsheets in finance, drawing parallels to today’s AI revolution. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of technology and faith, offering rich insights for church leaders and communities navigating the evolving landscape of AI.

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Ever wondered how transformational leadership can steer a university through tumultuous times? Mae and I tackle the contentious financial health issues, the over-reliance on athletic programs, and the potential premature closure of the athletic department. We explore the broader implications of administrative decisions and leadership changes on stakeholders. This is a conversation you won't want to miss if you're intrigued by leadership dynamics within complex educational institutions.

Mae Keller, former Director of Institutional Effectiveness at Concordia University Ann Arbor, joins us to share her incredible journey from healthcare to higher education. Mae offers a behind-the-scenes look at her role during the critical merger between CUAA and its Mequon campus. Gain deep insights into how transparency and humility were key in navigating leadership challenges, especially after a difficult town hall announcement.

In our next segment, we discuss the nuts and bolts of institutional effectiveness and the remarkable growth in healthcare programs at Ann Arbor. Mae walks us through the early years of the merger, revealing both the excitement and hurdles of operational integration. Learn about the significance of institutional research and the importance of widely accessible data. We also examine Ann Arbor's impressive enrollment growth despite the competitive higher education landscape in Michigan, emphasizing the substantial benefits that the merger brought to both campuses.

The final part of our episode delves into the financial intricacies and controversies facing Concordia University Ann Arbor. Whether it's the complex process of exploring autonomy for Ann Arbor or the significant drop in undergraduate enrollment, this episode highlights the urgent need for trust, transparency, and effective management to uphold the mission of Lutheran education. Join us for an eye-opening discussion that uncovers the reality behind sustaining an educational institution through challenging times.

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Discover the unexpected ways small churches are making a huge impact in the world of church planting, as Reverend Dr. Chris Holder joins us to share his wisdom on fostering gospel-centered growth. Through our enlightening conversation, it becomes clear that the size of a congregation doesn't dictate its ability to contribute to new ministries. We delve into the power of collaboration, from networks to mergers, and shine a light on creative strategies that move beyond the traditional, such as planting churches in art galleries and other non-traditional venues. This episode is a call to action for churches to shed the scarcity mindset and embrace innovation in spreading the gospel.

As we navigate the nuances of leadership and formation within smaller congregations, Dr. Holder provides invaluable insights into the balance required between academic theology and hands-on ministry. We address the fears and skepticism prevalent in American Christianity, particularly within the LCMS, about the potential dilution of the Gospel with church growth. Emphasizing the central message of Christ's redemption, Dr. Holder encourages a robust approach to ministry that trusts in the Holy Spirit’s ability to work through our imperfections. Tune in as we explore how a united vision among church leaders can lead to a revitalized church community that's ready to grow and deploy leaders for the kingdom.

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What does it take to maintain a strong LCMS identity in a diverse academic setting? Dr. Thomas offers an insightful look into Concordia Irvine's hiring practices, the emphasis on Lutheran intellectual tradition, and the holistic formation of students. From the operational dynamics of the Concordia University System to the strategic efforts to build unity while respecting individuality, this episode offers a deep dive into the leadership and culture that drive Concordia University, Irvine. Tune in to hear about the efforts to maintain transparency, inclusivity, and a team-oriented approach that fosters a vibrant and innovative academic environment.

Curious about how to lead a university through a global pandemic? Dr. Michael Thomas, President of Concordia University, Irvine, shares his incredible journey of steering the institution to new heights amidst unprecedented challenges. During his candid conversation, Dr. Thomas delves into the strategic rebranding of the university, clarifying its mission, vision, and values, and the exciting new construction projects on campus. These pivotal changes are all leading up to Concordia's 50th anniversary, marking a new era of growth and innovation for the university.

In a bold and ambitious move, Concordia University, Irvine expanded its facilities with the $45 million acquisition of a new campus. Dr. Thomas discusses this transformative decision, emphasizing the importance of adaptive leadership and the university's commitment to faith in a rapidly changing world. He also reflects on the emotional impact of the closure of Concordia University, Portland, and the resilience of the community in moving forward. This episode highlights the delicate balance of innovation and tradition in higher education, particularly within a post-Christian environment.

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