Church Unfiltered with Dr. Anthony Cobbs

Working on church staff might seem like wonderful, fulfilling work. Ideally it is, but there are times when it is challenging and even difficult.In this episode Dr. Cobbs relays a few ways to determine if working on church staff is the way to go. Taken from his new book, "The Supporting Cast: A Guide for Church Staff" listeners will hear:What questions to ask when considering a staff positionWhat has been Dr. Cobbs' most challenging part of being a church Exec?Websiteanthonycobbs.com

Across the country church attendance has dwindled. There are practical reasons people have chosen to stay at home and worship. This episode revisits the projections made during the pandemic in episode 17 and updates the possible reasons people have still not returned to in-person worship.Previous episode referred to:https://www.buzzsprout.com/1116260/4617122-e17-what-if-they-don-t-come-back-valid-reasons-why-some-people-won-t-return-to-church.mp3?download=true

The relationship between Pastor and church staff is one that is rarely mentioned and often overlooked. As a result, many leaders are unaware of what their staff experiences in the work space. Dr. Cobbs and Breakthrough Ministry Consulting is conducting research on church staff members to identify areas of strength and areas of growth to ensure high morale. This episode is a glimpse into the initial findings.

What makes the best leaders stand out?William Vanderbloemen, founder and CEO of staffing company Vanderbloemen Search Group, has conducted extensive research with the best of the best pastors, church leaders and the behaviors they exhibit.His new book, "Be the Unicorn: 12 Data-Driven Habits that Separate the Best Leaders From the Rest" offers insight on becoming a better leader. To purchase "Be the Unicorn" book:https://www.amazon.com/Be-Unicorn-Data-Driven-Separate-Leaders/dp/1400247101/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1699474344&sr=8-1Past episode with William:Episode 32: Church Staffing and Pastoral Succession

What is all the hype about A.I. (artificial intelligence) and how should the church respond?I asked Nils Smith, Innovation Director for Dunham and Company to stop by and share the basics of AI and what pastors and church leaders should consider with this not so new technology.We discussed several things such as:• What is AI?• How can the church benefit from AI?• In what ways are we already using AI?Mentioned in this episodeConnect with Nils Smithhttps://www.nilssmith.comIG: @nilssmithBook about New InnovationsSeeing Around Corners by Rita McGrathResources about AIGloo What is ChaptGPT?

Graduation season inspires many to go back to school and earn a degree or add on another one. If you are ministry, or aspire to be, it is important to think about certain factors before spending time, money, and energy in school. But let's face it: all degrees are not worth the investment and frankly some are not even credible.This episode we discuss a few considerations:Why Are You Thinking About a Degree?What Type of Degree Should You Pursue?What are the credentials for the school you attend?Look up if your school is accredited by clicking this link:https://ope.ed.gov/dapip/#/home

What do you do when your heart is no longer in what you do? For too many leaders, even pastors and church leaders, this is a reality even while they continue to serve. Dr. Wanita Mercer is the CEO and founder of Lead My Heart consulting and coaching. She shares warning signs to look out for and encourages leaders to reclaim the passion they have for ministry and leadership.Dr. Mercer's Contact InformationSocial media @leadmyheart2022Website: www.leadmyheart.comEmail: contact@leadmyheart.comBook recommendations from Dr. Mercer:NIV: Leading By the Book (Zondervan Publishing)Becoming a Leader by Dr. Myles Munroe

Tragedy happens to us all. Ministers are usually the first people we call but who ministers to the minister when he or she is going through? Dr. Antoine works with pastors as the Director of Bi-Vocational Pastors at Baptist General Convention of Texas. He joined us on this episode to share his story and to offer tips on caring for the preacher during crisis. 

Are you thinking about going on church staff? I surveyed church staff from across the country with the question, “If you could go back to your initial interview, what questions would you ask?”This episode shared ten of those questions such as:“What is the church vision and how is it implemented?”“Are there any past or potential scandals I need to know about?”“How does the church handle mental health issues among staff?”This is a must hear episode for leaders of staff and volunteers.

It has been said the pandemic changed church forever. Maybe that declaration is somewhat exaggerated but there are trends and adjustments that definitely resulted. This episode looks at five positive trends that emerged from the pandemic.Online ministryMental health awarenessYoung adults in leadershipPastoral successionMerging churchesTo book a Wired Workshop with Dr. Anthony Cobbs email:info@breakthroughonline.comPrevious episodes referenced in this episode:The Church, Facebook, and Digital Trends with Nona JonesChurch Staffing and Pastoral Succession with William Vanderbloemen

As church leaders seek to gain a sense of stability and plan for the future it is important to plan based upon data. This episode is a must hear for pastors and leaders who are planning programming and a calendar for their church.Contact Dr. Cobbs for Consultinginfo@breakthroughonline.org

As church leaders seek to gain a sense of stability and plan for the future it is important to plan based upon data. This episode is a must hear for pastors and leaders who are planning programming and a calendar for their church.Contact Dr. Cobbs for Consultinginfo@breakthroughonline.org

 Dr. John Faison is the senior pastor of Watson Grove Baptist Church in Nashville. He is a scholar, social activist and one of the rising pastoral voices in the country today. In one of the most candid interviews in Church Unfiltered history, Dr. Faison describes how the enduring pandemic impacted him as a pastor and personally and steps he took to persevere.In this episode we discussed:The importance of self care and therapyThe impact of the pandemic on pastorsBeing true to one's selfFor more information about Dr. Faisonhttps://www.johnfaison.orgBook referenced by Dr. Faison:Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster

When is the last time you asked your young adults (ages 18-35) what they are dealing with and what questions they might have? I took the time to ask about 40 young adults from 3 different churches what topics they would want to discuss with their church leaders.In this episode I list 10 of the most common themes that arose and how pastors and church leaders can use these topics to start Bible studies, sermon series or forums with these young students, professionals and families. A few topics on the list include:* Sex outside of marriage* Knowing your purpose* ForgivenessFor more information on how to reach your young adults or for referrals on speakers and guests for your group email us at: info@breakthroughonline.org

Black history month allows us to commemorate the experience of the African-American. Returning guest, Dr. Carey Latimore, is a history professor and Christian preacher who understands the importance of highlighting the role faith in God had in the plight of the black American. In this episode, Dr. Cobbs and guest Dr. Latimore discuss several topics such as:* The importance of churches acknowledging black history* The premise of the new book, "Unshakable Faith" by Dr. Carey Latimore* How faith played a role in our history.To purchase "Unshakable Faith click this link:https://www.amazon.com/Unshakable-Faith-American-Redemption-Community-ebook/dp/B09RN6L6XN/ref=sr_1_3?crid=1U36CAUGTEFZ8&keywords=unshakable+faith&qid=1644025719&sprefix=unshakable+faith%2Caps%2C143&sr=8-3

Setting goals at the beginning of a new year is typical. But how do you set goals in a season of uncertainty? This episode looks at classic ways to set S.M.A.R.T. goals and also how to identify key factors that will help you establish purposeful direction.To contact or book Dr. Cobbs:info@breakthroughonline.org

The so-called great resignation is a phrase coined to describe the millions of American workers who are leaving their jobs and looking for new opportunities. Thus far more than 4.4 million people have resigned, retired, or flat out quit their jobs. How does this impact the church, church staff and pastors? HR Strategist and podcast host Krystal Speed joins us to dialogue about what this phenomena means to individuals and also how church leaders can respond appropriately to the changing times and ambitions of their staff and volunteers.Contact Krystal Speed for HR Consulting:IG: @yourhrstrategistLinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/krystalspeed/Unicorn Talent Hunter Podcast with host Krystal SpeedRelated episodesEpisode 37: Hiring, Firing and Human Resources in the ChurchEpisode 16: Leading High Capacity Leaders#thegreatresignation#pastors#churchstaffing

The career choice of church consulting and coaching has taken off in recent years. What does it take to become a consultant to churches and what are some of the pitfalls one might bump into? This episode looks at the good and bad of the industry.Consulting businesses mentioned in this episode:The Unstuck GroupThe Malphurs GroupChurch Consulting Certification mentioned in this episode:Church Answers (Thom Rainer) Related episodesE50: Trends in Church Consulting with J. Charity WareE56: Leadership Challenges with Shawn LovejoyFor church consulting from Dr. Anthony Cobbs email:info@breakthroughonline.org

The church has often used the arts to minister to people. Music, dance, dramatic presentations are all tools at our fingertips. How does one do this effectively?Danielle Gulley is the owner of Perpetual Innovations Entertainment LLC Entertainment and produces plays, productions, even a children's online show. All while serving as the worship leader at her church. She blessed us as a panelist way back in episode 23 but she's back for episode 63 of Church Unfiltered Podcast as she discusses “Ministry Through Entertainment”.Related episodesE23: Worship Beyond a Pandemic with guests Danielle Gulley, Ananias Montague, and Jay TerellLink Referred to in the episodewww.daniellegulley.comTo purchase tickets to The King productionhttps://www.daniellegulley.com/the-king

Friendship has been redefined through social media and other platforms. It has been minimized to those who follow us on social media. But true friendship is something to value and appreciate, especially when you are a pastor. Pastors, depending on how they respond to others, can be the best type of friend. But as with any of us, there are red flags that suggest that pastors also have the potential of being the worst friends we can have. This episode looks at several factors to consider both from the pastor's perspective and from those who befriend these men and women of God.Related episodesE45: Getting Unstuck Personally and Professionally with Dee Cee MarshallE43: Leadership and Loneliness with Bishop Joseph WalkerContact Dr. Anthony Cobbsinfo@breakthroughonline.org

Have you ever heard a great sermon ruined by a weak or random illustration?As a preacher, a writer for Our Daily Bread and having written for sermon helps companies, Dr. Cobbs has learned the importance of a great illustration.This episode looks at tips for creating effective sermon illustrations and how to make sure the word of God remains the focus. 

Traditional, older churches often struggle to reach the next generation. Our services are typically not designed for them, and our leadership usually doesn't reflect them either. In this episode we discuss five ways to reach emerging generations such as:* Asking the tough questions* Establishing a cause to support* Raising up a pastor to plant elsewhereSupporting episodes:Episode 8Do Churches Care About Millennials?Trends in Church ConsultingEpisode 50 with J. Charity WareChurch Planting in a PandemicEpisode 19 with Pastor Ontario Green

Have you ever felt like you don't have enough time in the day? Has anyone ever made you feel guilty for not being accessible? Each of us have the same 24 hours. How we use that time is dependent upon our life balance and making sure we have set boundaries with the people pulling at us.This episode looks at six ways we can not only manage our time but manage ourselves so that we are able to maximize our moments. A few ideas explored in this episode include:Stop trying to do everything Learn how to say "no"Assess whether the people in your life truly add valueRelated episodes:Episode 28: Ministering While MourningEpisode 11: Self-care for LeadershipEpisode 52: The Pastor's Mental HealthJoin the Church Unfiltered Facebook community:https://www.facebook.com/groups/272277453954995

The call to serve on church staff is exciting, especially when the experience is filled with joy and growth. But just like any other area of work, sometimes it is necessary to move on from a staff or volunteer position.Dr. Cobbs solicited input from 25 current or former church staff workers and asked them to share how they concluded it was time to leave a staff role. In this episode, he presents commentary on a few of the responses such as:* Another opportunity arose* I No longer feel valued* I can no longer follow the leadershipAnd he offers tips on how to leave well and with honor.Similar episodesEpisode 32: Church Staffing and Pastoral Succession with William VanderbloemenConnect with Dr. Cobbsinfo@breakthroughonline.orgJoin the Church Unfiltered Facebook Community:https://www.facebook.com/groups/272277453954995

Katie Allred is known around the country as an expert on social media and digital discipleship. Her Facebook group, Church Communications has over 30,000 members and offers practical tips and best practices for churches. She is a professor at the University of Mobile and a consultant for church and business leaders to improve their communication efforts.On this episode Katie joins Dr. Cobbs to discuss communication in the church both in person and online. Katie also offers her "musts" that every church should know about communication and online presentation.Connect with Katie:churchcommunications.comkatieallred.comConnect with Dr. Cobbsanthonycobbs.com

Leadership coach Shawn Lovejoy is a former pastor and is the CEO and founder of Courage to Lead. He works with pastors and business leaders across the country. Shawn joined Dr. Cobbs for a discussion on topics in leadership and many of the challenges leaders face both personally and professionally.Connect with Shawn Lovejoy:https://www.couragetolead.comJoin the Breakthrough Ministry Consulting email list:https://us9.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=c6b74822e30051eae9480da0d&id=e96f7df80d

Everyone has questions and we are here to answer if possible. This episode  addresses three questions from across the country:1. How do you handle people who hurt you?2. What is the most disappointing thing about ministry?3. As church reopens, what has changed or is it back to "busyness"?Dr. Cobbs answers these questions candidly and prayerfully. For more church consulting and tips subscribe to the Breakthrough Ministry Consulting email list by clicking this link: https://us9.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=c6b74822e30051eae9480da0d&id=e96f7df80d

As churches and businesses strive to recover from the impact of the pandemic, employees and volunteers are making their way back to work. How do we make sure people are welcomed back with tangible, productive expectations? Dr. Cobbs discusses three ways to re-engage staff and volunteer leaders by focusing on their strengths, well-being and offering encouragement along the way.

I asked a few dynamic fathers to join me to discuss how faith and fatherhood intertwine. Josh Shelby, Dramone Taylor, and Jon Singletary opened up about the blessings and struggles of being a father. These three have unique circumstances that stretched them as men but have risen to be great dads who have a lot to share.

The mental health of the pastor is often overlooked and under appreciated. Dr. Aisha Woods returns to discuss her doctoral research on clergy, mental health and the reality that oftentimes, pastors feel isolated and alone when help is what they need. This episode is a must for all pastors, the family or friends of pastors and those who want to pray for pastors.

Leading while in the second seat (as an Executive Pastor, Assistant Pastor, COO, etc.) is challenging but fulfilling when the person is truly called for the assignment. Dr. Cobbs sat down with Christopher J. Harris, the Executive Pastor of Crossover Church of Tampa to discuss insight into being successful while leading from the second seat.

The role of the church consultant is to help pastors and church leaders accomplish the assignment God has given to them. Guest J. Charity Ware is a consultant and owner of Ministry Up. She joins Dr. Cobbs for a discussion on what's trending in the church world and how consultants can help church leaders prepare for the future.

The best places to work typically have leaders who are self-aware and striving to become better at connecting with their team. On episode 48 we looked at signs of horrible bosses, this episode takes note of a few things leaders can do that will increase morale and help followers feel empowered and safe. Pastors, executives, volunteer leaders alike can learn from this brief episode on becoming a leader people love.

It has been said that people don't leave jobs they leave their bosses. Whether in a church setting, corporate or volunteer role, bad behavior can lead to bad leadership. This episode looks at five red flags to help leaders avoid the label of a horrible boss.

Leadership development is a must for pastors and church leaders. The Gallup organization has put much research into understanding the best way to grow as a leader is to develop one's strengths. This episode discusses the Gallup Strengths Assessment and how it can help you become a better leader and develop others as well.

Effective communication during a crisis is imperative as leaders seek to guide people through tough times. This flashback episode was recorded during the first week of the most radical global crises of the modern era: the Coronavirus pandemic. Dr. Cobbs shares five key elements of effective communication that are applicable even today.

As many leaders examine how to move into a new season of life professionally or personally, it is easy to get stuck with what's comfortable and familiar.Dee C. Marshall is gifted at helping leaders focus on development and stretching themselves to become better at what they do. She has worked on Wall St., works with politicians and national leaders, and pastors. This episode is a challenge to all leaders who want to become better, and for those who want to get unstuck.

Volunteers are the engine to your organization. How you recruit, develop and mobilize people is essential to the success of your efforts.Veronica Patterson, has lead volunteers for years at Higher Dimension Church. She is masterful at recruitment and retention and associates it all with building relationships and organizational structure.She is the CEO of The Arisco Group, a consulting agency that helps businesses and churches develop organizational excellence. Veronica joined us to discuss “Getting the Most Out of Volunteers”.

"It's lonely at the top" is an adage that those who are in leadership know to be true. Bishop Joseph Walker, the pastor of Mount Zion Nashville and the Presiding Bishop of the Full Gospel Baptist Fellowship joins us to discuss the topic of loneliness. His new book, "Leadership and Loneliness" is on sale now and available by clicking here. Whether you are a ministry leader or lead in the corporate world, this episode is for you.

The post-pandemic season will see churches either thrive or potentially close their doors. One option church leaders can consider is merging two or more churches together. In this episode we discuss reasons why churches should merge as well as obstacles the process might reveal.

Three questions submitted by listeners deal with a variety of issues and concerns. This episode the three questions are: 1. How do I maximize my gifts in this season? 2. What do I do if I do not want to return to church when It reopens? and 3. How do I know when to leave a ministry role?

Should pastors get involved in public service? Dr. Michael Evans, Sr thinks so. He is the pastor of Bethlehem Baptist Church and the first African-American mayor of Mansfield, Texas. Dr. Evans joins us to discuss why he got involved in public service and why it is important for pastors and church leaders to be ready to serve in the capacity God calls you.

Church planting is an extremely difficult task. The average lifespan of a new church plant is less than three years. In other words, not all churches survive.On this episode I share why I eventually closed the church I started, and offer tips on how to avoid the same fate.If you are a church planting pastor or part of a launch team, you want to hear this episode.

What’s all the hype about Clubhouse? Why is everyone on TikTok? And how should church leaders respond? Should we use it or avoid it at all costs?I asked social media expert Jennifer Benton to explain the new app and the advantages and disadvantages of these popular platforms.

Finding and overseeing church staff is difficult, especially when you don't have a strategy or processes in place. Human Resource expert Krystal Speed and Dr. Ray Malone, Director of Human Resources at the Baptist General Convention of Texas, discuss considerations for church leaders concerning hiring the right people and why HR is so important to the church.

Everything has gone digital, creating a need for effective online marketing and engagement. Guest Kae Whitaker is a Digital Marketing consultant and discusses the need for churches to connect with and disciple members online.

What a year this has been. The pandemic, protests and political landscape has shifted the way I look at ministry and the church.Ranging from personal to professional, this final episode of 2020 offers a list of 5 ways this year changed my ministry.

Early in the days of the pandemic, our friend Sherita Childress, a licensed mental health therapist and social worker helped us with tips and tools of self-care back on episode #11.Six months later, Covid numbers continue to rise and people are struggling with fatigue, anger, and even guilt. Sherita Childress joins us again to encourage pastors, church staff, and all of us in general with hope even during this prolonged time of trouble.

As Covid numbers soar across the country, many churches remain exclusively online while some have slowly relaunched in person worship.Dr. Kenneth Kemp is taking on Covid in two different ways. He is a pastor of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church in San Antonio but also a medical doctor. As a pulmonologist he sees firsthand the devastation of this virus. This episode is a must hear conversation for church leaders who are striving to navigate through these tough times.

Hiring the right staff is an important part of any organization. For a church, it is important that individuals not only have the right skill set but fit the culture.Eight years ago, William Vanderbloemen launched a search firm that helps churches find the right people for staff roles. Today, the Vanderbloemen Search Group is the premier source of connecting churches and candidates. Episode 32 of Church Unfiltered Podcast offers a candid conversation with the CEO and founder of this group that has placed more than 2,000 people in the right ministry context. We also discussed pastoral succession and how pastors can prepare for retirement long before the time comes.

Should believers get involved in politics and social issues? What is the connection the church has to Capitol Hill?Dr. Barbara Williams-Skinner has served in the political arena for decades. She is one of the most respected names in Washington and works to bring awareness to issues of the marginalized.This episode is a discussion of her faith and political journey and how the two work together for the betterment of all.