The Leader's Journey Podcast

In this episode of The Leader's Journey Podcast, Jim sits down with Houston-area pastor Melissa Emerson to explore what it means to live faithfully in the midst of deep church change. After stepping into leadership of Mosaic Community Covenant Church following her father's sudden passing, Melissa and her husband have led their community through a nomadic, experimental journey—redefining what church can be in the most diverse suburb in the U.S. With honesty, wisdom, and a heart for justice, Melissa shares what it's been like to shed institutional expectations, rediscover community, and follow the Spirit's leading in uncharted territory. If you've ever felt disillusioned with “church as usual,” or if you're discerning a new way forward, this conversation offers courage and clarity for the road ahead. Melissa Lee Emerson is a third generation Chinese American woman co-pastoring Mosaic Community Covenant Church with her husband. Mosaic meets at a YMCA in the most diverse suburban county in the United States. Passionate about the intersection of faith and justice, Melissa dedicates her energy to the church, to Mosaic Learning Center, and raising her two daughters. She has a masters of divinity from North Park Theological Seminary with an emphasis on intercultural ministry and a bachelors in psychology with an emphasis on sociology and human development. She enjoys multicultural learning spaces and trips, especially if food is involved.  Conversation Overview: The shift from institutional church to a nomadic, mission-focused church Creative approaches to discernment  Developing missional partnerships Embracing Unlearning Rebuilding culture: resisting performance-driven worship and prioritizing outreach The role of emotional maturity, spiritual formation, and slowing down in adaptive leadership   Resources:  Mosaic Covenant Community Church Unlikely Nomads: In Search of the New Church by Terry Walling A prophetic and pastoral look at the shifting landscape of the North American Church and how leaders are navigating toward new expressions of faith. Shattered Dreams – a sermon by Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. A profound reflection on disappointment, surrender, and trusting God's larger purpose through unfulfilled expectations. Acts 1:8 Model A biblical framework used to guide outreach and mission—beginning in one's immediate community (“Jerusalem”) and expanding outward to the world. Dwelling in the Word (Lectio Divina) A contemplative practice of reading Scripture in community with an emphasis on spiritual listening and discernment. Nomads in the Changing Church - The Leader's Journey Podcast  Find The Leader's Journey on YouTube!

In this episode of The Leader's Journey Podcast, host Trisha Taylor is joined by coach and colleague Aundrea Baker for a rich and practical conversation about self-awareness and the Enneagram. Together, they explore how understanding the inner motivations behind our behavior can lead to personal growth, deeper compassion, and stronger team dynamics. Whether you're new to the Enneagram or a long-time student, this episode offers insightful reflections and practical tools to help you better understand yourself and others. Aundrea Baker is a leadership coach with The Leader's Journey, bringing deep experience in church leadership, nonprofit work, and pastoral ministry. A former co-pastor and nonprofit founder, Aundrea holds a doctorate and has spent the past decade exploring the transformative power of the Enneagram. She lives in the Houston area and works alongside her husband Warwick, who is also part of the team. Key Points: Self-awareness is foundational for growth, especially in leadership. The Enneagram offers language and insight into our inner motivations—not just behaviors. Aundrea's personal journey with the Enneagram began during a season of burnout and transition. Misidentifying one's type is common; deeper exploration often reveals more accurate insights. Understanding your type can foster self-compassion and reduce judgment. The Enneagram helps coaches and clients uncover unconscious motivations and internal narratives. It's a dynamic system—growth is possible by accessing other traits and motivations. Team dynamics benefit when members understand each other's types and communication styles. Awareness of triads (assertive, compliant, withdrawing) can improve collaboration and reduce misunderstandings. Compassion is key: the Enneagram should be a tool for empathy, not judgment. Resources:  The Narrative Enneagram :https://www.narrativeenneagram.org/  -This is the organization in which Aundrea received her training. They have an online test, information about each type on the website, and conduct regular online training. For more information on the Hornevian Triad, see The Enneagram Map to Your Deeper Self: Living Beyond Your Type by Sandra Smith. -This book also offers basic Enneagram info with practices, blessings, and prayers. The Enneagram for Black Liberation: Return to Who You Are Beneath the Armor You Carry by ChiChi Agorom Finding Freedom: Understanding Our Relationships Using Object Relations and the Enneagram by Belinda Gore The Road Back to You by Suzanne Stabile and Ian Morgan Cron The Enneagram for Spiritual Formation by AJ Sherrill   View this episode on YouTube

In this episode, Jim and Mike explore how Bowen Family Systems Theory offers powerful tools for leading in times of uncertainty and anxiety. Drawing on personal stories—including parenting a child with trauma, navigating racial and cultural dynamics in St. Croix, and caring for a spouse with Alzheimer's—they discuss how guiding principles, curiosity, humor, and staying connected help leaders function in the face of anxiety rather than be driven by it. They reflect on the necessity of running experiments when off the map, and why leadership today demands skills more like map-making than map-reading. Key Topics Anxiety is not something to eliminate, but to manage Functioning in the face of anxiety with guiding principles Managing anxiety to access guiding principles The value of humor in anxious situations Curiosity as an antidote to anxiety Seeing the system and yourself in it Resistance is part of adaptive change Running experiments when off the map Coaching and community as support for off-map leadership   Resources https://www.thebowencenter.org/ Watch this episode on YouTube!  

In this episode of The Leader's Journey Podcast, Trisha and Jim sit down with coach and educator Dawn Bird to explore the deep emotional and spiritual transformation that can come through Family of Origin work. Through vulnerable storytelling and honest reflection, Dawn shares how doing this work helped her uncover grief, reshape her understanding of her family, and show up differently in every area of her life—from her marriage and parenting to her leadership and coaching. This conversation is a rich, compassionate look at how healing the past creates new freedom in the present—and new hope for the future. Dawn Bird is a professional coach, facilitator and educator with 9 years of experience in non-profit, business, and healthcare settings. Dawn has an M.A. in Educational Psychology with a concentration in Counseling. Dawn has been involved in Faithwalking for 11 years, first as a participant and then as a coach and facilitator.  Through Faithwalking, she was introduced to Bowen Family Systems theory which has been particularly helpful in her own journey of transformation and in her work with others as well.  Dawn has done extensive Family of Origin work and enjoys leading others through that process as individuals and in groups. She also has training in Internal Family Systems. Dawn lives with her husband, Bill Bird, in northwest Illinois. They have 3 adult children. Dawn enjoys reading, learning, live theatre, and working out on her Peloton. Conversation Overview Starting the Work What It Looks Like Emotional Differentiation in Action Patterns We Inherit Siblings & New Conversations Grief and Healing Showing Up Differently Coaching & Accountability Resources:  Books Growing Yourself Up – Jenny Brown Everything Isn't Terrible – Kathleen Smith The Fangirl Life – Kathleen Smith The Ties That Bind – Peter Steinke Tools & Courses Genogram – a tool for mapping multigenerational family patterns Faithwalking – a spiritual and emotional formation process Going Home Again – a Family of Origin course led by Dawn (available after completing the 6 Faithwalking modules)  

Welcome to this episode of The Leader's Journey Podcast, where we take a deep dive into one of the most foundational — and often fragile — elements of leadership and community: trust. In this extended conversation, we explore how trust gets broken, why it's so emotionally charged, and what it really takes to rebuild it — both in relationships and within organizations. Whether you're a leader trying to repair harm, or someone deciding whether to trust again, this conversation is for you. Converstation Overview Trust is a two-way street: Both parties play a role in either building or breaking trust. It's not about assigning equal blame, but about seeing the complexity of the system we're part of. There are different kinds of trust: Sincerity, reliability, competence, and care — and naming which one was broken matters. The emotional impact matters: It's not enough to just hear feedback; trust repair requires acknowledging and connecting to the pain your actions caused. Restoration is mutual: Even after an apology, the other person has to “let it count” for trust to begin to rebuild.. Trust takes time: Just because someone is trying to change doesn't mean trust will instantly be restored. Rebuilding is often slow, with regular check-ins along the way. Trust yourself: At the end of the day, we each have to develop trust in our own capacity to be okay, even if trust isn't fully restored with someone else. Resources The Thin Book of Trust by Charles Feltman The Leaders Journey Youtube Channel Coaching support from The Leader's Journey team The Leaders Journey Blog

"Trust is like the air we breathe -- when it's present, nobody really notices it. When it's absent, everybody notices." Warren Buffett, quoted in Forbes Magazine Trust is the bedrock of every successful relationship—whether personal, professional, or within a community. In this episode, Jim and Trisha dive deep into what trust really means, why it's essential, and how to cultivate it. Through real-life stories and insightful discussion, they explore the complexities of trust and how it impacts our daily lives.  Key Topics Covered: The definition of trust and why it's crucial for relationships How trust is built and the common factors that strengthen or weaken it The Components of Trust: Care, Sincerity, Reliability, and Competence The role of self-awareness in becoming a trustworthy person Practical steps to rebuild trust when it's been broken The connection between trust and leadership in personal and professional settings Real-life examples of trust in action and lessons we can learn   Resources   Houston Rodeo mutton busting The Thin Book of Trust by Charles Feltman Brene Brown on The Anatomy of Trust Dare to Lead by Brene Brown The Speed of Trust by Steven Covey

In this episode, we explore the critical need for men to develop emotional maturity, take personal responsibility, and engage in meaningful self-reflection. Ryan, Aaron, and Trisha delve into how men's work, particularly in groups, can serve as a powerful tool for emotional growth and healthy relationships. Conversation Overview: The Power of Group Work for Emotional Growth   The Role of Self-Reflection in Relationships   Acknowledging Women's Anxiety About Men's Spaces   Practical Advice for Emotional Growth   The Role of Emotional Maturity in Leadership Links: Ryan Donovan at The Leaders Journey.    Aaron Fullmer   Men's Work TX.

In this episode of The Leaders Journey podcast, Jim and Trisha are joined by Reverend Dr. Timothy Scoonover, senior pastor at First Presbyterian Church in Moncks Corner, South Carolina. With over a decade of pastoral experience, Timothy shares how, as an unlikely nomade, he has led his congregation through a journey of adaptive leadership, emotional health, and spiritual formation. Timothy's story is a powerful reminder that leadership in today's world is a long, slow process. Through cultivating emotional and spiritual health, investing in personal practices, and creating a community culture that supports one another, leaders can navigate the turbulence of change and conflict. A native of Knoxville, Tennessee, Timothy graduated from the University of Tennessee with a Bachelor of Science in Human Services.  He received his Master of Divinity from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary in South Hamilton, Massachusetts, where he was awarded as the Walters Preaching Scholar. Timothy married his high school sweetheart, Ashley, and they have two sons, Cooper and Micah. He is passionate about church renewal, making disciples, University of Tennessee sports, tennis, coffee, and time with family. Key Highlights: The Power of Experiments in Leadership: Modeling Vulnerability and Emotional Health The Role of Language in Leadership Apprenticeship to Jesus in a Changing World Community Support and Leadership Resources: https://firstpcmonckscorner.org/ The Leaders Journey website.  

Join The Leader's Journey team as they explore what it means to ride the waevs of reactivity and and how those waves have shaped their experiences and goals to improve.  a reflective conversation about reactivity—how it shows up in our lives, how we manage it, and what we're learning in the process. Tricia and the team explore personal stories of how they've navigated emotional waves in their own lives—from time management struggles to family dynamics and professional challenges. With reflections from team members Jim Herrington, Rick Rarick, Dawn Bird, Chad Jaeger, and Edie Lenz, this episode offers practical wisdom for anyone looking to stay grounded amidst life's inevitable anxieties and lead with greater awareness and intention. Conversation Overview Jim Herrington on Asking for Help Rick Rarick on learning to adapt Dawn Bird on Feeling, Acknowledging, and Managing Reactivity Chad Jaeger on Letting Other People Grow Edie Lenz on Learning to Stand Still and Wait   References Kathleen Smith:  Everything Isn't Terrible: Conquer Your Insecurities, Interrupt Your Anxieties and Finally Calm Down    True to You: A Therapist's Guide to Stop Pleasing Others and Start Being Yourself    Kathleen Smith's substack The Anxious Overachiever   Oliver Burkeman: Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals

In this episode of The Leader's Journey Podcast, Trisha Taylor, along with Nate Pyle, Matt McCarthy, and Katie Ignatowski, dive into part three of the politics series exploring the challenges of division and leadership in polarized times. While the focus isn't on the U.S. election specifically, the discussion addresses the broader implications of division in churches, workplaces, and communities. With returning guests Nate Pyle and Matt McCarthy, and new voice Katie Ignatowski, this episode provides insights into how leaders can foster dialogue, perspective-taking, and emotional maturity in their communities. Nate Pyle: A pastor and member of The Leader's Journey team, Nate brings a wealth of experience in guiding congregations through challenging conversations and promoting emotional maturity in leadership. Matt McCarthy: Another seasoned leader and pastor, Matt focuses on creating opportunities for embodying the politics of Jesus at the local level, emphasizing community engagement and kingdom work. Katie Ignatowski: An executive director with a legal background, Katie has held significant roles in politics and compliance in Wisconsin. She brings a fresh perspective to the team, blending her expertise in law and leadership with a commitment to grace-filled and truth-centered dialogue. Key Points Polarization and Leadership: The team explores the challenges leaders face in divided environments, highlighting the need to balance empathy and challenge. Holding Tension: Insights on navigating complexity, resisting oversimplification, and fostering productive conversations. Media Literacy: Discussing the importance of critical thinking and diversifying sources to navigate "two different realities" shaped by media consumption. Emotional Maturity: How leaders can grow their own emotional maturity and guide their communities towards it as a critical discipleship practice. Engaging Locally: The value of focusing on local action and influence as a means to foster meaningful change and embody the politics of Jesus. Guiding Principles: The role of guiding principles in making decisions, holding convictions, and navigating polarized contexts. Resource Links The Leader's Journey Coaching Team Miroslav Volf: "Exclusion and Embrace" Playing Politics, Leading in an Election Year Part 1 Playing Politics, Leading in an Election Year, Part 2    

The following episode originally aired in July of 2022. You can find the rest of that coaching series here:  The Leader as a Coach: Developing People The Leader as a Coach: Being Coachable    The five skills that leaders can start to work on today to become more effective leaders through coaching are deep listening, inquiry, giving clear feedback, guiding focus, and doing your own work.  Subscribe to our newsletter! Leaders who learn to lead through coaching and who develop a culture of coaching in their organization will effectively raise up people who can consistently be the healthiest, most effective version of themselves and do their best work. Conversation Overview Coaching is "deliberately providing a safe and challenging environment where change is possible" Deep listening "Being profoundly heard by another person is a transformative experience." – Jim Herrington "The experience of being deeply listened to makes us different." – Trisha Taylor Inquiry One reason we get bored listening is because we're not actively asking questions. We're not really all that curious, we're busy, and we're distracted.  Giving clear feedback Guiding focus Part of the skill of guiding focus is helping people pay attention to the things they need to be paying attention to. Doing your own work Links:  The Leader As Coach: Developing People Giving and receiving feedback Defined and Connected Learning is Imperative for Effective Leadership: Part 1 Two Feet Walking Workbook Coaching description on our website Our Love Hate Relationship with Goals (podcast episode) Two Feet Walking Podcast Series Thank you for listening. If you enjoy listening to The Leader's Journey Podcast, the best way to support us is to take just a few seconds and leave a rating and/or comment over on iTunes or share it with your friends on Facebook … Thank you!

In this episode of The Leader's Journey Podcast, Trisha Taylor sits down with Mandy Smith, a gifted pastor, artist, and author of Confessions of an Amateur Saint. Together, they discuss the deep challenges Christian leaders face, the journey of faithfulness over success, and the importance of embracing weakness as a pathway to strength. Mandy shares her insights on how leaders, particularly in faith communities, often find themselves caught between the desire for competence and the necessity of surrendering to God's guidance. Through personal stories and deep reflection, this episode invites leaders to embrace vulnerability and trust God with their limitations. Mandy Smith is the pastor of St. Lucia Uniting Church in Australia and the author of Confessions of an Amateur Saint. With a unique blend of pastoral leadership, artistic expression, and deep theological insight, Mandy serves as a voice of compassion and clarity for leaders seeking to integrate faith with everyday life. She is also associated with the Eugene Peterson Center for Christian Imagination. Mandy's creative and thoughtful approach to ministry continues to inspire leaders to lead with authenticity and dependence on God. Key Points: The Role of Faithful Leadership: Mandy reflects on the tension between striving for professional competence and the call to lead with faith and reliance on God. Faith Over Competence: Leadership isn't about having all the answers; it's about modeling the need for God. Mandy talks about how, as leaders, we are called to admit our limitations and trust God's power to work through us. The Confession of Leadership: The act of confession is integral to faithful leadership. It involves not only acknowledging our weaknesses but also reaffirming our trust in God despite those weaknesses. The Struggle with Human Limitation: Mandy shares her experience of being thrust into leadership roles that challenged her competencies, and how leaning into vulnerability rather than striving for control has been both humbling and healing. The Invitation to Lead Authentically: By embracing human limitations, leaders can create space for God's strength to shine. Mandy challenges leaders to stop hiding their weaknesses and to model dependence on God for the benefit of those they lead. Resources: The Vulnerable Pastor: How Human Limitations Empower Our Ministry Unfettered: Imagining a Childlike Faith Beyond the Baggage of Western Culture Confessions of an Amateur Saint: The Christian Leader's Journey from Self-sufficiency to Relying on God Mandy's website: The Way is the Way The Eugene Peterson Center for Christian Imagination

In this episode, Jim and Rick Rarick dive into the essential role of values in organizational culture and the importance of leadership integrity. They discuss the concept of the Employee Value Proposition (EVP) and how it can shape a meaningful workplace experience. By acknowledging imperfections and fostering a supportive environment, leaders can build stronger connections with their teams and enhance employee loyalty. Rick Rarick is an experienced organizational coach with a background in both for-profit and nonprofit sectors. He specializes in helping leaders understand and improve workplace culture, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, accountability, and meaningful engagement. With a passion for guiding organizations toward healthier dynamics, Rick brings a wealth of knowledge to discussions about employee experience and leadership development. Key Points: The significance of living organizational values with integrity. Acknowledging and addressing integrity gaps as a means of fostering loyalty. The Employee Value Proposition (EVP) defined as a statement of what employees receive from their organization. Importance of meaningful work and connection between individual roles and company goals. The role of friendships and relationships in employee retention. Growth opportunities and the ability to learn from mistakes as key components of employee satisfaction. The shift from traditional work-life balance to a more flexible work-life rhythm. The impact of generational attitudes on work expectations and the importance of creating a human-centered workplace culture. References: Harvard Business Review: Employee Value Proposition Rick Rarick - The Leaders Journey Coach  

In this episode, the Jim and Trisha host guests Chris and Kurt from Brimstone coaching to engage in a deep conversation about leadership, self-awareness, and the mental models that shape our approach to work and relationships. They explore the importance of slowing down, reflecting, and questioning existing assumptions about what it means to be an effective leader. This episode wraps up with a powerful reminder: “You don't have to be as tired as you are.” Chris Godfredson and Kurt Bash have both come out of leadership and supervisory roles in a variety of business kind of contexts and then transitioned into church ministry where they have each led in a variety of contexts. They are the co-founders of Brimstone Coaching Group. Kurt Bush began his working career in the manufacturing world. He spent time working for a large manufacturing company in various roles over 10 years, with the majority of that time being spent in Human Resources and Production Supervision. He was then called out of that into seminary, and subsequently, full-time vocational ministry. Over the last 6 years, he has served and led churches in and through both minor and major changes, along with helping leaders establish a clear sense of “who we are together.” It's his work in his own life that fuels the passion that he feels in helping others do their own work. Chris Godfredsen made the transition a number of years ago from printing the news to telling the Good News. He has a growing understanding of Family Systems theory and Internal Family Systems, and he uses tools and resources that help people stop doing things that have hampered their growth for so long so they can live whole lives. These tools have also been helpful in conflict resolution work with co-workers and leadership teams. Conversation Overview Seeing to Change Mental Models of Leadership The Courage to Let Go Redefining Strong Leadership Testing Assumptions Invitation to Reflect Resources Brimstone Coaching Group An Everyone Culture: Becoming a Deliberately Developmental Organization by Robert Kegan and Lisa Lahey (the idea of doing two jobs is in the introduction and first chapter) Wholeheartedness: Busyness, Exhaustion and Healing the Divided Self by Chuck DeGroat Western Theological Seminary Brimstone Coaching podcast

In this thought-provoking episode, we dive deep into the themes of connection, vulnerability, and healing with Chuck DeGroat. Drawing from his rich experience as a therapist and author, Chuck offers insights into how we can move away from shame-based narratives and toward a more empowering understanding of ourselves and our relationship with the divine. Join us as we explore the importance of community in healing, the reframing of addiction, and the transformative power of imagination in our spiritual journeys.   Chuck DeGroat is a seasoned therapist, author, and professor known for his work in clinical mental health counseling and his insights into personal and spiritual growth. With a background in pastoral ministry and a deep understanding of human psychology, Chuck offers a unique perspective on healing, connection, and the inner journey. His latest book, Healing What's Within: Coming Home to Yourself and to God When You're Wounded, Weary, and Wandering, provides a roadmap for those seeking to reclaim their worth and reconnect with their true selves. Key Points The Importance of Connection: Exploring the impact of disconnection on our lives and the necessity of vulnerability in healing. Reframing Suffering: Understanding suffering as a universal human experience rather than a personal failure. Imagination in Healing: Utilizing creative visualization to foster a sense of safety and connection with God. Redemptive Remembering: The practice of recalling moments of grace to counteract negative internal narratives. Rethinking Addiction: Viewing addiction as a response to deeper needs rather than a behavior to condemn, and fostering curiosity about our motivations.

In a world where every conversation or statement can spark intense debates, how do you maintain your composure and stay true to your values? Join Trisha, Nate, and Mac as they dive into a conversation about managing both online and in person engagement with empathy, leading through political tensions, and making a meaningful impact on a local level. Mac McCarthy has been in Christian ministry for over 15 years.  As a pastor, practitioner, and coach, he is passionate about equipping leaders by integrating missional theology, spiritual formation, family systems, and adaptive leadership to navigate congregational change.  Nate Pyle is a pastor, author, and coach. He has over 25 years in Christian ministry, and during that time Nate began learning and practicing skills related to adaptive leadership, congregational revitalization, family systems, emotional maturity, and spiritual formation.  Key Points Engaging on Social Media Dialogue over Provocation Outrage vs. Conviction Maintaining Perspective and Empathy Recognizing Limitations Managing Anxiety and Maintaining Emotional Maturity References The Colossian Forum Ten Arguments for Deleting Your Social Media Accounts Right Now by Jaron Lanier

Note: This podcast is part one of a three-part series on trauma-informed leadership. You can find it in the podcast archives of our website on dates January 23, Feb 13 and Feb 27 of 2019.   Trauma is real and leaders who understand the effects of trauma in their own lives and in the lives of others are less likely to be sabotaged by trauma and are more likely to lead in ways that turn out to be healthy and lifegiving. Conversation overview: Trauma and leadership Trauma can hinder and stimulate growth Unaddressed trauma in leaders is dangerous How do we access trauma? Experiencing other people's trauma Leaders may be survivors of trauma; leaders are also leading survivors of trauma The past is always present Resources: The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog The Body Keeps the Score Healing Developmental Trauma If you enjoy listening to The Leader's Journey podcast, the best way to support us is to take a few seconds and leave a rating and/or a comment on iTunes or share it on Facebook. Thank you!

Change happens at the speed of conversation. This episode is about learning to master transformation conversations from our six-part series on leadership practices that lead to breakthrough. If you'd like to learn more about this series or our organizational coaching and leadership development services you can contact us using our website, https://theleadersjourney.us/contact Conversation Overview God created with God's words. What do our words enroll people in? Enrolling people in hope The 3 parts of a transformation conversation How are you going to practice? Thank you for listening. If you enjoy listening to The Leader's Journey Podcast, the best way to support us is to take just a few seconds and leave a rating and/or comment over on iTunes or share it with your friends on Facebook … Thank you!

We know that our lives and our leadership flourish when we practice showing up in emotionally mature ways but we don't always know what that looks like practically. After thinking together about emotional maturity for more than 20 years, we believe that it looks like practicing being both defined and connected as a way of life. In this podcast, we talk about defining ourselves, letting others define themselves, staying appropriately connected . . . and then we look at the “and” that holds them all together. It's a little bit like patting your head and rubbing your tummy–trying to do both things at once is a challenge! We think it's worth it, though. We hope you'll join us to look at how the concept of being defined and connected shows up in your life and how you can use it as a framework to think through some of your stickiest problems. Conversation overview: Defining ourselves by clearly and courageously saying what is so for us Allowing (and even inviting) others to define themselves Staying appropriately connected and honoring our relationships with others even if they see things differently Connecting by listening rather than convincing Disagreeing without dehumanizing each other Looking at your patterns: Do you give up defining yourself in order to preserve the connection? Do you define yourself but let go of the connection? Examples of practice A visual representation Resources: How did Jesus deal with Conflict? Growing Yourself Up by Jenny Brown

In the latest episode of The Leader's Journey Podcast, explore the nuances of navigating misuse and abuse of authority with Jim and Trisha. In a candid discussion, they delve into crucial topics: from recognizing various forms of abuse to implementing proactive measures for prevention. With clarity and empathy, they outline practical steps and resources every leader should consider to create safer environments. Whether you're new to these discussions or well-versed, their approachable style and wealth of experience make this episode a must-listen. Join Jim and Trisha as they equip listeners with tools to foster healthier, more informed organizational cultures. Conversation Overview Overview of previous episodes Reporting Abuse What are you pretending not to know? Risks of and Responses to Confrontation Taking a Victim Centric Approach Awareness of Triggers Communication is Key Recognizing Culpability Doing Your Part   Podcast Series Power Dynamics Power Dynamics for Trustworthy and Transformative Leaders Power Dynamics and Conflict The Balance of Power: How Leaders Balance Authority and Vulnerability Creating Space for Flourishing.    Trauma Informed An Introduction to Trauma for Leaders Part 1 An Introduction to Trauma for Leaders Part 2 An Introduction to Trauma for Leaders Part 3   Links and Resources Matt Tebbe: Some Common Tactics Used to Avoid Justice Church Cares Website Net Grace Website - While we don't recommend particular groups for consulting because each group has its own unique approach and we recommend each individual do their research to determind what is best for them,we absolutely recommend the resources on the GRACE page.  A Church Called Tov Bully Pulpit When Narcissism Comes to Church  

Join Jim and Trisha as they discuss how assigned authority affects our lives with their guest Ryan Donovan. Take the time to listen to the hard questions being asked about how the role of authority in today's world has shifted and changed.    Ryan Donovan is a licensed counselor who lives in Austin, Texas who loves the outdoors. He plays fastpitch softball in his free time, and his life experience has equipped him in some really important ways to join in this conversation. Ryan is also involved in coaching with The Leader's Journey.   Conversation Overview:   Recognizing Blind Spots Assigned Authority The Paradigm Shift  Connection vs. Commitment Asking the Right Questions The Effects of a Double Bind Stewardship of Authority   Church Cares and the book "Becoming a Church That Cares Well for the Abused"   GRACE - Godly Response to Abuse in a Christian Environment   A Church Called Tov   When Narcissism Comes to Church   Bully Pulpit   Matt Tebbe's substack

Authority is inherent in leadership roles, and that inherent authority can be misused and abused. In part one of this series, Jim and Trisha discuss the reality of abuse, the questions surrounding it, and the way leaders are called to respond.    Conversation Overview None of This is New Authority is Inherent in Leadership What is Authority and Where Does it Come From? The Legitimate Uses of Authority A Focus on Spiritual Abuse The Impact Outweighs the Intention Responding to the Critical Mirror Conflict and Disagreement vs. Abuse Taking a Victim Centric Approach   Get Coaching Find Us on Facebook   Podcasts:  Power Dynamics for Trustworthy and Transformative Leaders Power Dynamics and Conflict: A conversation for trustworthy and transformative leaders   Books:  The End of Leadership by Barbara Kellerman Bully Pulpit: Confronting the Problem of Spiritual Abuse in the Church When Narcissism Comes to Church: Healing Your Community From Emotional and Spiritual Abuse    

In this episode, dive into the fascinating world of artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on various aspects of life, including leadership, sermon writing, and more. Join us as we explore the innovative ways in which AI is being integrated into everyday tasks and decision-making processes. For this special podcast, Jim and Trisha hear some insightful points from multiple guests on how they use AI and how they have seen it impact the world around them. Podcasts guests include Scott Hescht is enthusiastic advocate for AI integration into various fields, Scott brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the discussion. Scott offers unique insights into the practical applications of AI in different contexts, including in his ministry as the pastor at The Haven Community Church in Spring, TX. Rich Braaksma: is the Regional Mission Leader for Resonate Global Mission in Western Canada and part-time pastor of Rhodes Church in Calgary, Alberta. Leani du Toit: Trauma-informed spiritual, cross-cultural, and leadership coach with a diverse range of experiences. Nathan Harrington: Founder of Nathan Harrington Coaching, delving into AI applications in coaching and content creation. Tim Rotman: Pastor at Zumbro Lutheran Church in Rochester, Minnesota, sharing his experiences with using AI in sermon writing. Conversation Overview: AI in Research and Ministry Beyond the Information Being Curious and Cautious Using AI in Content Creation Making Connections with Large Language Models Resources Ezra Klein and Ethan Mollick: How Should I Be Using AI Right Now? AI Will Shape Your Soul The Haven Community Church Resonate Global Mission Nathan Harrington Coaching Zumbo Lutheran Church

Jim talks with Mike Whang about how his shift away from the traditional church model opened up avenues of ministry that can be limited for those in Christian leadership. Mike explains how working out the equations of ministry, the balancing of values, the realities of day to day life, and the needs of the Church, has been a challenge and a blessing as he grows in his walk with God and leadership position.   Mike Whang is an ordained elder of the United Methodist Church. He serves Oikon and Wesley as an extension minister of the Texas Annual Conference. He received his M. Div from Duke Divinity School. His favorite foods are rice, kimchi, and eggs. Raised in Los Angeles, he and his wife, Lisa are raising native Texan daughters of Korean descent. Conversation Overview A Shift in Approach Pivoting From a Local Church to a Ministry Organization Gaining Margin by Stepping away from Sunday Centric Model Integrating Faith with Life The Upsides and Downsides of Change Personal Responsibility as a Follower of Christ Limitations of Traditional Structures Different Paths for Spiritual Journeys Resources https://www.oikonandwesley.org/ Nomads in the Church: The Leader's Journey Podcast with Terry Walling

On this episode of The Leader's Journey Podcast, Trisha talks with Mac McCarthy and Nate Pyle about how the election year has affected their congregations and the ways they are navigating that social landscape within their churches. Listen to this first of several podcasts in 2024 as they discuss the unique ways they have each worked with the leadership in their churches in order to guide their congregations to focus on building bridges and communicating with grace.  Nate Pyle is a pastor, author, and coach. As a pastor, Nate has served as the pastor of Christ's Community Church in Fishers, Indiana since 2008. During that time, Nate began learning and practicing skills related to adaptive leadership, congregational revitalization, family systems, emotional maturity, and spiritual formation. He has a passion to see the church become a learning community growing its capacity to navigate difference, hard conversations, and congregational change.  Mac McCarthy has been in Christian ministry for over 15 years.  As a pastor, practitioner, and coach, he is passionate about equipping leaders by integrating missional theology, spiritual formation, family systems, and adaptive leadership to navigate congregational change.  Having served in a variety of roles, Mac is currently the Lead Pastor at Crosspoint Community Church in the western suburbs of Milwaukee where has been since 2008.  He received his B.A. from Bethel University, his M.Div from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, and is ordained with the Christian & Missionary Alliance.  Mac is also a CrossFit coach and enjoys helping people pursue holistic health.    Conversation Overview Political conversation in a Systems Context Getting Your Hands Dirty Political vs. Partisan Being a Minister of Reconciliation Conflating Religious Doctrine and Political Politics Anxiety and Emotional Maturity Capacity Building and Discipleship It Doesn't Always Work Core Conviction and Guiding Principles   Resources:  Nate Pyle on The Leader's Journey 4 Americas: The Stories and the Gospel - Nate Pyle SermonsMac McCarthy on The Leader's Journey Luke Bretherton on Democracy and Christianity Crosspoint Community Church Christ Community Church

Trisha and Jim continue their insightful discussion on boundaries in this week's podcast. Join them as they discuss your questions about boundaries and the benefits and struggles of implementing them in personal and professional leadership roles.  Conversation Overview Flourishing Within Boundaries Boundaries and Emotional Maturity Working Within a Broken System The Cost of Boundaries Managing Guilt Christ's Example of Boundaries Staying On Your Side of the Line and Allowing God to Work Communication is Key Creating a Culture of Healthy Boundaries The Value of Pain

Join Trisha and Jim as they discuss the importance of respecting boundaries not just for the benefit of ourselves, but for the benefit of those around us. Together they discuss the complexities of setting and keeping boundaries while maintianing healthy relationships.  "Boundaries are not something we put on others, boundaries are something that we maintain for ourselves. " -Trisha Taylor Conversation Overview Reconciling healthy boundaries with Jesus' message.   Articulating Our Limits   What Boundaries Are - and What They Aren't    Playing Tennis with Emotional Boundaries   Myths About Boundaries   Boundaries in Leadership   Saying and Hearing "No"  Resources Cleaning Up a Mess with Ryan and Marijke Boundaries by Henry Cloud and John Townsend

Join Jim and Trisha as they discuss how we as the church can embrace the paradigm shift to a new structure in a church without walls. Their insightful conversation with this week's guest, Terry Walling, offers a unique perspective on how nomadic believers are truly helping grow the church as they act as disciples within the community. Terry Walling is a pastor, professor, and author of Unlikely Nomads: In Search of the New Church. He has also launched a podcast series in which he has conversations with a variety of people who are in search of a deeper journey with Jesus and with following Him in a different kind of church in America. Key Takeaways:  -Moving in an Old, New Direction -The Nomadic Believer -Personal Renewal that Leads to Corporate Change -Apprenticing the life of Jesus -Embracing the Mystery  Resources: http://leaderbreakthru.com/ Unlikely Nomads by Terry Walling Canoeing the Mountains by Todd Bolsinger A Non-Anxious Presence by Mark Sayers The Great Emergence

Join Jim and Trisha as they discuss the concept of being vulnerable as a leader with author and keynote speaker, Jacob Morgan. Listen as they explore how the skill of balancing vulnerability and competency can empower leaders in both personal and professional settings.  Jacob Morgan is a remarkable and successful leader,keynote speaker, trained futurist, and author. His most recent book, Leading With Vulnerability, was published last year. Jacob pulls from his personal and professional experience as well as the results of many leadership polls and studies as he speaks to tens of thousands of leaders each year on how to fine tune their leadership skills.  Conversation Overview Personal vs. Professional Vulnerability Balancing Competence and Connection The Specifics of Vulnerability Naming Your Emotions The Right Place and Time to be Vulnerable When Vulnerability Hurts   Resources The Future Organization Jacob's Substack Leading With Vulnerability and Other Books by Jacob Morgan    

Join Jim and Trisha as they speak with pastors Ted and Jess from Evanston Vineyard Church about intentional change. Discover how their approach to transformation involves coaching, diverse perspectives, and the formation of clear, shared values. Ted Kim, who has been pastoring and ministering in churches for more than 20 years in Washington, California, New York, and areas outside of the US, is the lead pastor at Evanston Vineyard Church. He is passionate about leading people's hearts and minds toward Jesus. Jess, once an intern, is now also a pastor at Evanston Vineyard Church. She has been a big part of the intentional change and value focusing at the church.   Conversation Overview Forming Congregational Values: Ted and Jess share their experience in leading a congregation through the process of forming and embracing core values. Navigating Resistance: The leaders discuss the positive aspects of encountering resistance during the values formation process and how it contributes to a culture of authenticity. Cultivating Team Culture: The importance of team culture values and ongoing learning in maintaining alignment with the overarching church values. Practical Implementation: Simple yet impactful practices, including regular readings of values during meetings, emphasizing the role of coaching in decision-making, and fostering a sense of agency among team members. Real Change in Action: The messy and non-linear nature of change, showcasing the genuine transformation that can occur in a congregation through intentional and collaborative efforts. Resourses Evanston Vineyard Church

Getting stuck in problems and situations can be a significant hindrance to your ability to effectively lead and inspire those around you. Join Trisha, Jim, and multiple other members of The Leader's Journey to discover their solutions to getting unstuck. Start your new year off with resolving to not allow the muddy moments in life to dictate the way you lead.  Getting Unstuck Distinguish between technical and adaptive problems.  Talk with trusted individuals to process the ways you are stuck and find a solution.  Shift the mood. Practice breathing in the silence to embrace and examine your emotional responses.  Reject feelings of shame. Create space to pray and listen. Resources Internal Family Systems The Discernment of Spirits by Timothy Gallagher    

adership, shedding light on helpful practices that can guide church leaders through the shift from an attractional growth model to a missional one. Joining them on this insightful exploration is the experienced and dynamic Mac McCarthy, Lead Pastor at Crosspoint Community Church in Milwaukee. Pastor Mac McCarthy is a seasoned leader with over 15 years in ministry. Currently serving as the Lead Pastor at Crosspoint Community Church, Mac brings a wealth of experience and a unique journey, having transitioned into the lead pastor role as the church evolved. Ordained in the Christian and Missionary Alliance denomination, Mac holds degrees from Bethel University and Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. Beyond his pastoral role and contributions of expertise as part of the coaching team for The Leader's Journey, he's a CrossFit coach and a passionate advocate for holistic health. Key Takeaways: Unveiling the missional perspective Diving into the importance of cultivating new mental models and practices in alignment with God's mission. Joining God on Mission: Listen, Discern, Experiment, and Review.  Adaptive leadership in a changing cultural landscape.  Resources: Crosspoint Community Church Leading Faithful Innovation: Following God into a Hopeful Future by Dwight Zscheile, Michael Binder, and Tessa Pinkstaff    

In this episode, Trisha and Jim engage in a thought-provoking conversation with their guest, Ann Kansfield. Ann delves into her personal experiences with ADHD, offering insights into harnessing the condition as a unique asset. Embracing openness about living with ADHD, she reveals how she has transformed her challenges into strengths, offering a unique perspective on leadership and attention.  Ann Kansfield, along with her wife Jennifer, serves as a pastor at Greenpoint Reform Church in Brooklyn, New York, and as a staff chaplain for the FDNY. Ann's journey, which you can read about in her book "Be the Brave One", inspires others to embrace their authentic selves and harness their innate potential. Key Takeaways:  Understand the crucial role of attention in effective leadership.  Embrace leadership and self acceptance with ADHD. Recognize the importance of reflection and self awareness in managing attention. Explore the significance of building effective teams and fostering trust. Emphasize the value of routine in enhancing focus and productivity.  Links and Resources: Be the Brave One by Ann Kansfield Follow Ann Kansfield on Facebook Greenpoint Reformed Church  

Join host Jim Herrington and Dr. Michael DeRuyter in an enlightening discussion as they uncover the delicate interplay between individuality and togetherness forces within leadership environments. Dr. DeRuyter is a distinguished expert in Bowlen Family Systems Theory and leadership development, offers profound insights and practical strategies to help leaders and organizations understand the intricacies of group dynamics. Explore the impacts of these forces on decision-making, team dynamics, and organizational relationships, providing invaluable guidance for leaders in complex settings. With practical strategies for managing heightened togetherness and fostering open communication, leaders are empowered to cultivate an environment of trust and collaboration, propelling their teams toward collective success. Join us in unlocking the transformative potential of understanding and harnessing these vital forces, igniting a passion for resilient leadership and cohesive team synergy in any organizational setting. Key Takeaways: Embrace the Complex Dynamics of Individuality and Togetherness  Heightened Anxiety and Togetherness Strive for Balance Implement Effective Strategies Resources Mentioned: The Leader's Journey Website The Bowen Family Systems Theory  

In this episode, Jim and Trisha talk with Chris Field, founder of Mercy Project, author, and speaker. They dive into the significance of systems thinking for leaders, emphasizing how it can address complex problems and instill hope within their organizations. Through his own journey, Chris highlights the value of long-term commitment, warns against the allure of quick fixes, and champions the enduring power of persistence. Chris's story underscores the importance of understanding the intricacies of a problem before attempting to solve it. By identifying the root cause and working towards a sustainable solution, real and lasting change can be achieved. Whether it's tackling child trafficking or any other complex issue, the principles of systems thinking, persistence, and introspection are invaluable. "Transformation happens in years, not in days." - Chris Field Key Takeaways: Origin of Mercy Project Understanding the Real Issue Systems Thinking vs. Linear Thinking Persistence – "Transformation happens in years, not in days." Chris's New Book: Chris talks about his upcoming book, which is an introspective look at his life and the importance of understanding oneself. Resources Mentioned: Chris Field: Learn more about Chris's work at meetchrisfield.com. Disrupting for Good A Billion Hours of Good Mercy Project: An organization dedicated to ending child trafficking in Ghana through sustainable solutions. The Leader's Journey: For those interested in learning more about systems thinking and leadership skills, visit theleadersjourney.us.

Leaders who rigorously practice rest and who learn to work from rest, not work for rest, move past performance and entitlement and can sustain healthy leadership for the long haul. This episode delves into the importance of rest, relaxation, and sabbaticals for everyone, especially leaders in various organizations. Rusty discusses the need for individuals and families to discern what true rest means to them and how they can creatively and collaboratively attain it, emphasizing the importance of connection, enjoyment, and minimizing distractions. Conversation Overview: True Rest: Discerning what is restful is crucial. Individual Needs and Collaboration: Balancing time alone and time with others, assessing and communicating needs clearly, and offering mutual support. Importance of Sabbaticals: Sabbaticals are integral to long-term wellness and effectiveness in ministry and other professions. Importance of Rest in Organizations: Both religious and corporate entities are recognizing the value of sabbaticals in employee retention and well-being. Ongoing Practice: Developing restful practices is an ongoing process that may need adjustment, accountability, support, and continuous effort. Sabbatical Coaching and Resources Resources: Rusty's Ministry: Steadfast Ministries Rusty's upcoming book: “The Art of Stability: How Staying Present Changes Everything” (2024) Other coaching and support resources: The Leader's Journey

If we can't or won't engage conflict, we can't lead effectively. It's as simple as that. Fortunately, managing ourselves in conflict can be learned, unlearned and re-learned as we use conflict as a powerful opportunity for growth and change. We wrapped up part 1 with a question from Trisha, how do we manage ourselves and stay open hearted even when the other person isn't? That's where we'll pick up in this episode. And we'll also explore the fascinating world of internal family systems and helping the organizations that we're leading develop more capacity for managing conflict. About Our Guests: Heidi De Jonge lives in Ontario, Canada and has been an ordained minister in the Christian Reformed Church for 17 years–serving as pastor for congregations, a seminary, a university and health care. She also works in the area of conflict transformation as a restorative practitioner with FaithCARE and a trainer with The Colossian Forum. Heidi received her doctorate in ministry from Western Theological Seminary in 2018, studying and writing about conflict as an opportunity for discipleship and transformation. She and her husband, Tim, have three daughters (Naomi, Samara and Zoe, 12 to 16) and a beloved husky-lab named Nevada. Brian Keepers has been an ordained pastor in the Reformed Church in America for 22 years. He has served three different congregations in the midwest, and he is currently serving as the lead pastor of Trinity Reformed Church in Orange City, IA. He is married to Tammy (24 years this August) and they have two daughters–Emma who is 20 and Abby who is 15 years old. They also have a granddaughter named Luna who is 2 1/2 years old. Brian loves art, reading, being outdoors, spending time with people, and getting to be “Poppy” to his granddaughter. He also loves to learn, especially at the intersection of theology, psychology and leadership. Resources & Links: The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable by Patrick Lencioni Christ the Center by Dietrich Bonhoeffer Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, et al. Fierce Conversations: Achieving Success at Work and in Life, One Conversation at a Time by Susan Scott. Leading Through Conflict: How Successful Leaders Transform Differences into Opportunities by Mark Gerzon.

If we can't or won't engage conflict, we can't lead effectively. It's as simple as that. Fortunately, managing ourselves in conflict can be learned, unlearned and re-learned as we use conflict as a powerful opportunity for growth and change. Conversation Overview: What is the goal of conflict? Mental models of conflict Formative experiences with conflict “Truth is not something in itself which rests for itself, but something that happens between two. Truth happens only in community.” Crucial conversations Growing our capacity to manage conflict Container conversations About Our Guests: Heidi De Jonge lives in Ontario, Canada and has been an ordained minister in the Christian Reformed Church for 17 years–serving as pastor for congregations, a seminary, a university and health care. She also works in the area of conflict transformation as a restorative practitioner with FaithCARE and a trainer with The Colossian Forum. Heidi received her doctorate in ministry from Western Theological Seminary in 2018, studying and writing about conflict as an opportunity for discipleship and transformation. She and her husband, Tim, have three daughters (Naomi, Samara and Zoe, 12 to 16) and a beloved husky-lab named Nevada. Brian Keepers has been an ordained pastor in the Reformed Church in America for 22 years. He has served three different congregations in the midwest, and he is currently serving as the lead pastor of Trinity Reformed Church in Orange City, IA. He is married to Tammy (24 years this August) and they have two daughters–Emma who is 20 and Abby who is 15 years old. They also have a granddaughter named Luna who is 2 1/2 years old. Brian loves art, reading, being outdoors, spending time with people, and getting to be “Poppy” to his granddaughter. He also loves to learn, especially at the intersection of theology, psychology and leadership. Resources & Links: The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable by Patrick Lencioni Christ the Center by Dietrich Bonhoeffer Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, et al. Fierce Conversations: Achieving Success at Work and in Life, One Conversation at a Time by Susan Scott. Leading Through Conflict: How Successful Leaders Transform Differences into Opportunities by Mark Gerzon.

Welcome back to another episode of The Leader's Journey podcast. Today we're sharing one of our favorite episodes from 2019, Quit Getting In Your Own Way. This episode is a deep dive into the complexities of leadership and the often-overlooked reality that we can be our own biggest obstacles. Whether you're a seasoned leader or just starting your leadership journey, this episode offers valuable insights into self-awareness and the power of understanding and unlearning our behaviors. We hope this conversation is helpful on your journey to get out of your own way Conversation Overview True self and false self We all have needs and we all have wounds Meaning-making How do we learn to see ourselves? How do we reprogram the autopilot?

In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Chuck DeGroat to talk about the natural reactivity we have to anxiety. We've talked a lot about fight and flight, conflict and distancing, but we don't always add two other instinctive reactions: freeze and fawn.  We may aspire to peace-making but we often settle for peace keeping and people-pleasing. When we can see our fawn response, we can stop hiding and courageously choose genuine connection instead. Conversation Overview:  Chuck's tweet that inspired this conversation How does the fawn response mimic healthy connection while also undermining it? How does the fawn response show up in leadership? How do we connect the fawn response to anxiety? What might we do instead of fawning? References:  Link to Chuck's Tweet Chuck Degroat Website https://twitter.com/chuckdegroat @chuckdegroat on Threads Janina Fisher  The Fifth Discipline: The art and practice of the learning organization Healing Developmental Trauma: How Early Trauma Affects Self-Regulation, Self-Image, and the Capacity for Relationship The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable

We grow our emotional maturity when we see ourselves and our relationships as part of creation and stay in touch with the natural world around us. Conversation overview:  Are we, humans, disconnected from nature? What is the relationship between emotional maturity and connection to the natural world? What are some practices that can bring us back into connection with nature? Links:  Steven Chase called Nature A Spiritual Practice iNaturalist Seek App "To make a prairie" by Emily Dickson The Peace of Wild Things Written and read by Wendell Berry

In this episode, we continue our series on learning to managing self in triangles. Joining us for this conversation is our esteemed guest and good friend, Steve Cuss. As a reminder, this series is exploring the idea that triangles are neither good nor bad, but they are tricky and when you can see the triangles you're in and understand how they work, you have a better chance of not only surviving them but offering calm, principled leadership in the midst of them. Conversation Overview:  What are some common ways that leaders in particular show up in triangles? How do we get drawn into triangles?  How does being in leadership impact how we show up in triangles?  What kinds of triangles are we tempted to light up ourselves? What are some basic principles–and practices– about how we can better manage ourselves more thoughtfully in these tricky triangle situations?  Links: Steve Cuss Website Managing Leadership Anxiety: Yours and Theirs Family Systems and Congregational Life: A Map for Ministry  

Triangles are not good or bad….but they are tricky. We're excited to kick off our new two-part series, "Managing Self in Triangles". Our guest for this episode is Dr. Jenny Brown, the founder and executive director of the Family Systems Institute and Family Systems Practice in Sydney, Australia.  Dr. Brown is the author of the insightful book, "Growing Yourself Up: How to bring your best to all of life's relationships", which provides practical guidance on personal development within the context of our relationships. She is also the co-author of "Bowen family systems theory in Christian ministry: Grappling with Theory and its Application Through a Biblical Lens", a thought-provoking exploration of the Bowen family systems theory within the context of Christian ministry. In addition to her writing and counseling work, Dr. Brown is lead the Parent Hope Project. This initiative equips clinicians to effectively engage parents of symptomatic children, adolescents, and young adults, providing a roadmap for parents to discover ways they can change their part in dynamics that are inadvertently impeding their young person's development of self-regulation and responsibility. Conversation Overview: Are triangles bad? What are triangles for? What is the difference between triangles and triangulating? What are some of the predictable ways that triangles work? How do you remain in an outside or neutral position? Links and References: Growing Yourself Up: How to bring your best to all of life's relationships Bowen family systems theory in Christian ministry: Grappling with Theory and its Application Through a Biblical Len Family Systems Institute Parent Hope Project Dr Jenny Brown's Blog

In this episode, Jim and Trisha look back on The Leader's Journey, discuss key lessons and express gratitude for their clients, listeners, and the growth they've experienced through their work. We hope you'll connect with this authentic conversation.  Conversation Overview: Jim & Trisha discuss their history working together The context, culture, and spaces they work in The value of collaboration in their work The learning community they have developed The importance of learning The challenges of changing behavior Accountability in the learning process References & Links:  Tim McGee (personal, agency) Faithwalking The Podcast series on race Listening and Learning: An African-American Leader Shares His Story Changing Our Minds: How learning to see God and the world differently changed our view on race How We Got Here: Reflecting on our learning about race The series on trauma An introduction to trauma part 1 An introduction to trauma part 2 The series on power dynamics The Balance of Power: How trustworthy and transformative leaders balance authority and vulnerability creating space for flourishing Power Dynamics and Conflict: A conversation for trustworthy and transformative leaders Power Dynamics for Trustworthy and Transformative Leaders Using and Sharing Power to Create a More Just and Equitable Community Todd Bolsinger Juanita Rasmus Mandy Smith Phuc Luu Chuck Degrow Steve Cuss Robert Creech

Knowing and doing the right thing is hard. Staying calm and saying the course in the face of the resulting opposition can be even harder, and requires us to practice courage intentionally.  In this episode, the third in our series on courage, Jim and Trisha are joined by Jessica Shults and Mac McCarthy who discuss their unique, yet similar, pastoral stories about leading congregations through hard things in different ways. Together they talk about different practices that can be used to help grow courage in challenging circumstances. Conversation Overview Being courageous in challenging established mental models can effectively lead people into new ways of thinking Having a sense of calling, utilizing the help of others, and having to revisit challenging things over and over again are all ways help us work on courage The practice of controlling our own self-care, in addition to letting other help us carry the weight of change, helps us to be able to focus in on how to handle challenging opposition in the right ways Staying connected and staying the course while defining oneself are two styles of leadership that we can learn from to grow our emotional maturity Links & References Edwin Friedman Books Speeches By Martin Luther King Jr.: The Ultimate Collection Todd Bolsinger Books The Colossian Forum Crosspoint Church Podcast and Blog The Leader's Journey Website The Leader's Journey E-mail List

Facing trauma and pain in constructive and redemptive ways requires us to practice courage intentionally. With David Zailer, author of Death of a Fisherman, Trisha and Jim continue their series on courage. Together they discuss an important question from David's life and book: “How will you and I grow through hardship and suffering?” Conversation Overview It takes courage to face our past traumas in order to grow emotionally The path to healing from addiction Connection and heal from pain The willingness to do small things Links & References Death of a Fisherman by David Zailer The Allender Center National Domestic Violence Hotline Child Abuse Hotline Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Alcoholics Anonymous Narcotics Anonymous Operation Integrity The Leader's Journey - An Introduction to Trauma for Leaders Series The Leader's Journey Website The Leader's Journey E-mail List

Podcast guest Nathan Herrington helps Jim and Trisha explore practices that can sustain courage in the third episode of a series that focuses on growing our emotional maturity. By saying yes to life on its own terms we lean into how we can learn to be courageous, and essentially more effective leaders through working on intentional focused practices. Conversation Overview Demonstrating courage by saying yes without knowing the outcome How body-based practices and body awareness can help our reactivity First action steps when starting a yoga or meditation practice Living a fully alive life by being brave Noticing growth through practice over time Links & References Nathan Herrington's Listening to Leaders Podcast Brené Brown – Quote from “The Gifts of Imperfection” Nathan's LinkedIn Nathan's Instagram The Leader's Journey Website The Leader's Journey E-mail List

In today's podcast, we discuss how leaders often live in a pace that stands in the way of being able to grow our emotional maturity. Our guest, April Fiet, is a pastor and author whose book The Sacred Pulse: Holy Rhythms for Overwhelmed Souls posits that the process of slowing down helps us live into our callings by tapping into holy rhythms which help pattern our days according to God's desires for our lives.  The second episode in a series revolving around practices that help us grow our emotional maturity. Conversation Overview Learning to slow down to help us tap into rhythms of well being Chronos time vs kairos time Our longings to create space to be fully human How creativity and handcrafting helps us focus and ground Slowing down to examine our own selves and how we make time for others Links & References The Sacred Pulse: Holy Rhythms for Overwhelmed Souls by April Fiet Together: The Healing Power of Human Connection in a Sometimes Lonely World by Vivek H. Murthy M.D. April Fiet's Blog April Fiet's Free E-Book Whispers in the Wilderness: 7 Devotions for Hope in Uncertain Times April Fiet's Twitter April Fiet's Facebook Thank you for listening. If you enjoy listening to The Leader's Journey Podcast, the best way to support us is to take just a few seconds and leave a rating and/or comment over on iTunes or share it with your friends on Facebook … Thank you!

The only way to be different is to do different—seeing our autopilot ways of being and disrupting them is the only way change happens. I rarely struggle to know what I believe the right thing to do is but I often have the inability to do the right thing…I normally know the right things about how to relate, how to do relationships, and when I get anxious sometimes and maybe some people would say often the anxiety gets in the way of my ability to do the right thing” This is the first episode in an ongoing theme we'll be exploring the rest of the year about practices that help us all grow our emotional maturity. Conversation Overview Why is it so hard? What is an autopilot? How can we learn to see our autopilot? Do we really want to change? Ways we can learn to change our autopilot Organizations (teams and families) have autopilots References: Immunity to Change Hunger for Healing by Keith Miller

As a learning community, we want to share some of our best resources with you, let you get to know our team a little better and give you a peek into what we're learning. We hold a shared belief that, especially in a context where the pace of change is so rapid, ongoing learning that is fed by curiosity about what's happening in our ministry context, is an essential way of being. In this episode, we've gathered a handful of our teammembers toogther to talk about what we learned last year, to share a resource that will be helpful to our listeners, and to let us in on what they want to learn this year.  Trisha Taylor Learning to see her autopilot and intentionally disrupt it to "live more consciously, more thoughtfully, more awake." Two tools that have helped Trisha do this have been journalling and a "professional who knows how to hold space and listen." Don't Look Up [movie] Aundrea Baker Learned about emotions, the science behind emotions, and practiced "allowing myself in certain situations to feel the feelings and pass through them and get to the other side." Two books were primary for me in this learning, one was Emotional Agility by Susan David, and the other one was, It's Not Always Depression by Hilary Jacobs Hendel. Mac McCarthy  Over the past year Mac has been learning "how to process pain in ministry" and setting appropriate boundaries.  Two resources that have helped Mac work through this learning has been a coach and resources from Dan White Jr. and The Kineo Center This year he is planning to do a deep dive with his team into a leadership model that includes both men and women working together using Better Together Tim McGee This past year Tim has focused a lot of his learning on the power of clarity on communication and design.  "Clear is Kind" by Brene Brown A book that has helped Tim process and practice this over the past year was Strategy is Your Words by Mark Pollard Dawn Bird This past year Dawn has been learning to be compassionate with herself around patterns in some of her closest relationships.  Two resources that have helped Dawn explore this has been an episode of the We Can Do Hard Things podcast titled Breaking Cycles & Reparenting Yourself with Dr. Becky Kennedy and the book Good Inside by Dr. Becky Kennedy Hello, Molly! [memoir] Victor Chiao Victor said this past year he has been learning how to practice courage and draw from his guiding principles in the face of anxious situations. And while he says he didn't have any tangible resources he offered these thoughts, "find others with a shared vision, a community that fosters safety, that allows you...to lean into those areas of discomfort and to have a chance to choose courage." Another way he is planning to lean into discomfort is by up Jiujitsu this year.  Jim Herrington This past year Jim has been deepening his learning around trauma and exploring the connections between trauma and family systems.  A couple resources Jim mentioned in the episode were,   In The Realm of Hungry Ghosts by Gabor Mate M.D., The Wisdom of Trauma by Gabor Mate M.D., and Amazing Place Family Caregiver Support Resources Thank you for listening. If you enjoy listening to The Leader's Journey Podcast, the best way to support us is to take just a few seconds and leave a rating and/or comment over on iTunes or share it with your friends on Facebook … Thank you!

The gold standard of leadership is calm, principled presence in the face of challenge. This requires commitment and practice to do the inside-out work of growing a calmer self. About Nate Pyle Nate is an author, blogger and ordained pastor in the Reformed Church in America. In 2015, Nate released his first book, Man Enough: How Jesus Redefines Manhood, with Zondervan. He contributed to Learning Change: Congregational Transformation Fueled by Personal Renewal. Nate's second book, More Than You Can Handle: When Life's Overwhelming Pain Meets God's Overcoming Grace, released in March of 2019 with Zondervan. Currently, Nate serves as the pastor of Christ's Community Church in Fishers, Indiana where he lives with his wife and three children. "And so the biggest growth edge for me when it comes to growing a calmer self was growing my understanding of myself and who I am, and who I believe I've been created to be and what my values and beliefs and principles are and that's still an ongoing learning, but before I could ever grow a calmer self, I just had to figure out who my self was." – Nate Pyle Conversation Overview What is the role of self? Managing yourself vs changing others behavior Calm vs reactive Examples of calm leadership Growing our capacity to manage ourselves Examples of calm leadership Links and references Murray Bowen Edwin Friedman Steve Cuss book, managing Leadership Anxiety Nate Pyle Website Nate Pyle Books Chronically online Better Together https://twitter.com/NatePyle79