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It's the fourth Sunday after Easter, and we are talking sheep, shepherds, and disciples this week, with two different but connected paths. The first is the story of the resurrection of Tabitha by Peter in the Book of Acts. And the other is a meditation on Shepherd Leadership in John 10. The convergence of the twain? A life lived in love and grace, perhaps. Join us as we continue in this season to celebrate resurrection.
If you're a leader, I have a very interesting challenge for you. I would like to challenge you to let other people eat the first pancakes. Check out the video version of this episode of The Podcast. If you would like to hone your leadership to be more Christ-like, check out my book Shepherd Leadership and When Sheep Bite. This is part 83 in my series on godly leadership. You can check out all of my posts in this series by clicking here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎
Today we're thrilled to introduce Chick-fil-A Owner/Operator Nick Westbrook. Nick is the Operator of Chick-fil-A Hinesville as well as a Chick-fil-A food truck. He even finds time to host his own Podcast, Shepherd Leadership. Take a listen as he dives into Shepherd Leadership and how everyone should apply this method of leadership!Learn more about Cooper Connect, here: www.cooperconnect.co Listen to Shepherd Leadership, here: https://www.nickwestbrookspeaks.com/shepherd-leadership-podcast Cooper Connect is an independent entity and is not affiliated with, associated with, authorized by, or endorsed by Chick-fil-A, Inc. or its subsidiaries and affiliates. The name Chick-fil-A, Inc., along with its related names, trademarks, logos, and images, are the registered property of their respective owner. For official information about Chick-fil-A, Inc., please visit their website at https://chick-fil-a.com.
Far too many leaders spend more time making sure things look good on the outside than they do addressing whether things are good on the inside. Of course, I'm talking about issues like character, and humility, and servant-mindedness. Check out the video version of this conversation. I dive a lot deeper into the issue of true leadership coming from the inside out in my book Shepherd Leadership. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎
In today's episode, Greg and I discuss what it means to be a healthy leader. We break down the various facets of leadership health, and highlight why each piece is part of an essential structure that supports all of the other parts. This was a very important part in my book Shepherd Leadership. Check out the video version of this conversation. Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎
To you the term “silent killer” might conjure visions of a lone assassin from a spy movie, or perhaps more mundane but equally deadly things like high blood pressure or carbon monoxide leaks. In today's episode Greg and I are discussing toxic behaviors that creep into the workplace. They aren't quite as deadly as the ones listed above, but can still cause massive anger, frustration, and discord in your organization. Join us as we discuss some of the most prevalent toxins we've seen, and highlight how you as the leader are responsible for being the safeguard against them. Check out the video version of this conversation. Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens
Both Jesus and the apostle Paul warned shepherd leaders to be on guard against the wolves in sheep's clothing that would seek to destroy the flock from within. Here is the best wolf deterrent shepherds can use. Find out more about my book When Sheep Bite. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎
The apostle Paul uses a word for authority seven times in his letters. With these words he shows us both the right and wrong application of any pastoral authority. Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎
Jesus not only gave us an example of well-rounded, healthy growth, but He also gave us a barometer of measuring just how healthy we truly are. Check out the video version of this podcast. You can get more information on my Shepherd Leadership book here. Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎
When a shepherd leader is bitten by a sheep under their care, it's quite natural to say, “What's wrong with them?” But God calls His leaders to strive for a supernatural response. To find out more about When Sheep Bite, or to pick up a copy for yourself, please click here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎
In someways, my new book “When Sheep Bite” came out of my first book “Shepherd Leadership.” And yet, in many ways I consider “When Sheep Bite” to be the prequel of “Shepherd Leadership.” In either case, you can find out more about both of these books at http://craigtowens.com Check out the video version of this clip.
In this illuminating episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, host Patti Garibay, Founder & Executive Director of American Heritage Girls, welcomes Holly Culhane, Founder and CEO of Presence Point, to discuss the vital role of shepherd leadership in parenting. As we delve into the concept of leading like Christ, Holly's extensive background in leadership development and her deep understanding of Biblical principles provide invaluable insights for parents striving to model Christ-like guidance for their daughters. Holly Culhane brings a wealth of experience to this conversation, from her work with Presence Point to her contributions to the best-seller Servant Leadership in Action. Throughout the episode, Holly explains how shepherd leadership, characterized by purpose, care, and compassion, differs from other leadership styles. Drawing from John 10:11-14, she highlights the qualities of the Good Shepherd and discusses how these can be mirrored in our parenting practices. Listeners will gain practical advice on incorporating shepherd leadership into their daily interactions with their daughters. Holly and Patti explore how to provide guidance, protection, and unconditional love, reflecting the shepherd's care as described in Psalm 23. Holly also shares personal stories illustrating how these principles have positively impacted her relationship with her children, offering listeners relatable examples of effective parenting. Additionally, the episode touches on how shepherd leadership can strengthen the bond between mothers and daughters, particularly during challenging times. For those interested in deepening their understanding of shepherd leadership, Holly discusses the exclusive Shepherd Leadership curriculum created in collaboration with AHG. This resource is designed to help families embrace these principles in their daily lives. To learn more about Holly Culhane and her impactful work with Presence Point, visit presencepoint.com Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com.
In today's episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, co-hosts Rachael and Melissa explore what it means to lead like a shepherd, a unique approach to leadership modeled by Christ. In a world where leadership is often seen as a quest for power, fame, and control, Biblical leadership calls for something deeper—service, care, and protection. Shepherd leadership is not about domination but guiding with purpose, protecting from harm, and nurturing those in your care. Drawing from Scripture like Ezekiel 34 and Psalm 23, Rachael and Melissa unpack the beautiful metaphor of the shepherd as a loving leader who watches over the flock with vigilance and compassion. In this episode, they also reflect on AHG's commitment to instilling strong leadership skills in girls from a young age, helping them grow in confidence and resilience. From leading Troops to directing service projects, AHG provides girls with countless opportunities to step into their God-given leadership roles, honoring Him in the process. As you listen, you'll gain valuable insights into how you can foster shepherd-like leadership in your daughter—whether at school, on her sports team, or within her AHG Troop. We'll discuss the power of guiding with purpose, protecting those you lead, and nurturing them with care. Be inspired to help your daughter lead with love and faith, just as the Good Shepherd leads us. Join us for this enriching conversation that will encourage both you and your girl to embrace leadership that reflects the heart of Christ. Don't forget to pause, reflect, and pray as you walk alongside your daughter on this important journey. Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com
Ungodly leaders are also unsure and unstable. Here is a great case study for what godly leaders can and should avoid. I talk more about a godly leader's sure calling in my book Shepherd Leadership. And in this blog post, I give a three-word statement that can help godly leaders navigate through the toughest of decisions. This is part 79 in my series on godly leadership. You can check out all of my posts in this series by clicking here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎
In my book “When Sheep Bite,” I not only wrote about biting sheep, but I also wrote about wolves dressed in sheep's clothing, and wolves who aren't trying to hide themselves at all! Watch the video here. I have a related blog post that may interest you as well: When Shepherds and Sheep Talk. And you can check out more of this podcast I interview I did here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎
There are some know-it-alls who want to tell pastoral leaders how they should have done things differently. Much like the “armchair quarterbacks” that seem to know all the right calls a team should make, even though they have virtually no experience. Check out the video version of this conversation. Please check out both When Sheep Bite and Shepherd Leadership. And get in touch with me if you would like someone to talk to. You can check out the full conversation I had with John Opalewski and Jim Wiegand on their Leading From Alignment podcast here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎
Shepherd leaders need to be in the pastures where God has placed them, faithfully caring for the sheep under their care, and individualizing that care for each and every sheep. Check out the video of my conversation with Karl Vaters. You can check out more clips from this Church Lobby interview here. Check out my book Shepherd Leadership for yourself or for a pastor that you love. And also check out my latest book When Sheep Bite, which I think of as the prequel to Shepherd Leadership. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎
Pastors can wrestle with questions about why God called them to their ministry. It is important to remember the honor that it is to serve in this role. Check out my book Shepherd Leadership. And also check out my newest book When Sheep Bite. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎
Pride deceives. Pride perverts. Pride corrupts. Pride brings God's punishment. And persistent pride brings utter destruction. Check out my book Shepherd Leadership here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎
Fight-or-flight may be a natural response for shepherd leaders who are being bitten by sheep, but it's not the response that glorifies God, strengthens our leadership, and heals the flock. You can watch the video of my training with that group of pastors. I would like to invite you to join a cohort of pastors that will be dealing with the same painful sheep bites you have experienced. We'll meet together online every other week for 10 sessions to discuss the biblical principles that will help us all respond in the supernatural ways that strengthen our leadership, heal our flocks, and bring glory to the Chief Shepherd. This cohort is limited to just 10 pastors so that we can develop some solid friendships that will last well beyond the cohort, so please sign up today. Check out more information on my book When Sheep Bite here.
In this episode of 'The Overdrive Podcast,' Cameron Giddings explores the transformative power of shepherd leadership with Brandon Jones. They dive into what defines shepherd leadership, its emphasis on empathy and trust-building, and its role in nurturing team growth and overcoming challenges. Brandon shares personal anecdotes and practical advice on how to implement shepherd leadership effectively, illustrating its profound impact on fostering a culture of respect and development within organizations. This episode equips listeners with actionable insights to lead with heart and purpose in their own leadership journeys.
Sermon Text: 1 Peter 5: 1-4 Sermon Date: 6/16/2024 Speaker: Brian Crawford
Sermon Text: 1 Peter 5: 1-4 Sermon Date: 6/16/2024 Speaker: Brian Crawford
April 19, 2024 - Speaker: Andy Robison Shepherd Leadership - Mark 6:34 Corrupt Shepherds (Ezekiel 34, Jeremiah 23) Neglect, cruelty Micah 3:11 Shepherd is for the sheep, not sheep for the shepherd Sheep became scattered Divine intervention Messiah Christ would come in lineage of David 1 Peter 5:1-4 Chief Shepherd (John 10) Recognition Calls them by name Know his voice Entrance Door of the sheep Attendance Cares for all of them Gives His life for the sheep no one takes my life from me, I lay it down myself Conducting Shepherds (1 Peter 5:1-4) Subjection Must submit to Bible Only authority is in matter of judgment Can't change doctrine Must make sure truth is taught Responsibility (verse 2) Controversy Some say shepherds have authority, some say shepherds have no authority Must avoid boardroom eldership - does not match Biblical example Polling is not leadership Elders need to know sheep Comes by visiting Motives Not to please men Not by compulsion Not for dishonest gain Not to please yourself Descriptions Plurality idea, elders don't make decisions alone Accidentally rules over others - strong willed Creates veto power De facto Pope Not a novice People have been around a while and earned respect New Christians may become puffed up with authority Facilitator A shepherd feels the pain of his people Culmination Shepherding (Psalm 23) Vision for Provision (1-2) Trust and Rapport (3-4) James 5 let elders pray over him sick Andy thinks this is referring to spiritual illness With you in the valley of shadow of death Interests of flock (5-6) Hebrews 13:7 apostles Hebrews 13:17 elders 1 Thessalonians 5:13 Video: https://youtu.be/FSDJQ6t1wUE?si=aIWzRu92FpzS_05D Duration 38:33
Without a doubt, a leader plagued by feelings of guilt is a leader that is operating well-below his or her full potential. One of the best ways to avoid these feelings of limiting guilt is for the leader to admit that he or she isn't an expert in every aspect of their organization. In this short clip, Karl Vaters and I are specifically addressing pastoral leaders, but the principles can be applied to leaders of any organization. Check out the video of this conversation here. You may also be interested in a whole series of posts on godly leadership and in my book Shepherd Leadership. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎
I'd like to tell you about a book that I think is an absolute must-read for those in church leadership. Check out my interview with Karl Vaters, the author of De-Sizing The Church, on this episode of The Podcast. You can watch the video version of this interview here. And if you would like to check out when Karl interviewed me about my book Shepherd Leadership, those videos are here. Here are a bunch of ways to get in touch with me and follow along with other projects on which I am involved. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎
I was so thrilled to join John Opalewski and Jim Wiegand on the Leading From Alignment podcast! This is part 1 of my interview with them about my new book When Sheep Bite. Check out the video version of this interview. If you would like to pre-order a copy of When Sheep Bite, go to http://linktr.ee/craigtowens
Pastors are called to be shepherd leaders. Karl Vaters points out that some pastors get caught up in “the green room syndrome” that disconnects them from their sheep. If you would like to watch this clip from The Church Lobby Podcast, please click here. The biblical passage I reference in this interview is John 10:1-16. Check out other parts of my interview on The Church Lobby podcast here. Or check out the full conversation Karl and I had on The Church Lobby podcast here. Get more information on Shepherd Leadership here. And pre-order my newest book When Sheep Bite here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. Like some exclusive quotes from a book I just reviewed. ◀︎◀︎
Godly leaders are always striving to use their leadership power to serve others. What exactly does this look like? On a recent Craig And Greg Show episode, Greg and I discussed this important leadership tension. Check out the full Craig And Greg Show episode here. I talked about this confident-humble tension in much greater detail in this interview on the Thriving in Ministry podcast. Check out the video of my superhero Plungerman. And you can also read more in my book Shepherd Leadership. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎
Rev. Dr. Chris Polski
Christmas seems to be the one time of year when everyone loves to share their traditions, both in their families and in their organizations. As leaders we should embrace organizational traditions, and use them to show our team the culture of our organization. We also need to be aware that the personal traditions of our team members might make their lives a bit more hectic, and understanding and flexibility on our part will go a long way for them. Books make great Christmas gifts! Pick up a copy of my and Greg's new books to give to the leader in your life. Greg wrote Sage Advice and I wrote Shepherd Leadership. Check out the video version of this episode here.
Leaders earn some of their credibility when they lead through difficult or chaotic times. But it is also during these times that a leader can un-do all of the good things that he had already accomplished. On a recent episode of The Craig And Greg Show, Greg Heeres and I discussed how leaders can learn to control their reaction. In this clip, I share one simple strategy that has been so helpful for my leadership growth. Check out the full conversation Greg and I had on this topic This blog post is a good follow up on this idea—Reaction Action And here's a conversation I had on another podcast with Jeff Keady where I discussed a concept from my book Shepherd Leadership about how Jesus always reacted appropriately. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. Like this recent post where I shared a map and an app to help with your Bible study time. ◀︎◀︎
I think it is very instructive that Jesus began His three years of public ministry after thirty years of preparation, and that He began His daily ministry after an early-morning prayer session. If Jesus needed that kind of preparation time, what would make us think we could do with anything less? Karl Vaters and I discussed Chapter 10 of my book Shepherd Leadership which is entitled “Can't, Won't, or Don't” This chapter (and our conversation) covers the three main reasons leaders need to address to make sure they are being adequately prepared. You can watch the video version of this podcast here. Check out the full conversation Karl and I had on The Church Lobby podcast here. Here are some of the other video clips I have shared from this interview. And these are some of the blog posts on the topic of sabbathing. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. Like this recent post where I shared a map and an app to help with your Bible study time. ◀︎◀︎
This week, we're going to look at this passage from another angle still. We're going to consider its implications for leadership within the local church today. The main question I mean to answer is: What does this passage teach us about how God intends Grace Church to be led?
The principle is pretty simple: The more you serve others, the better you will lead others. I take a deep dive into this kind of leadership in my book Shepherd Leadership. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎
It has always been extremely heart-wrenching for me to see pastors and other ministry leaders get so frazzled that they throw in the towel. Many of them not only resign from the churches where they served, but they end up resigning their ministerial credentials too. I know this breaks God's heart as well. When I was interviewed on The Church Lobby podcast, Karl Vaters wanted to discuss some preventative steps that pastors could take to avoid this ministry burnout. Check out the video version of this podcast here. In my book Shepherd Leadership, I devote five chapters to the mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional health of those in ministry leadership. I hope you will pick up a copy for yourself or for your pastor. To listen to the full interview on The Church Lobby, please click here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎
July 16, 2023 - Shepherd Leadership - Pastor Barry Smith - cpcspokane.org
Words are incredibly powerful! With our tongues, we can elevate others to amazing heights, or tear them down completely. In this episode, Greg and I discuss how, as leaders, it is critical that we are mindful of our everyday words so that we ensure we are taking our team in the right direction. Watch the video version of this podcast here. To get more info about personalized coaching, or to learn more about Maximize's other projects, visit https://maximizeleadership.com Books referenced in this episode: Shepherd Leadership by Craig T. Owens Leadership Jazz by Max DePree Ten Powerful Phrases for Positive People by Richard M. DeVos
Leaders are wired to be either naturally confident or naturally humble. God designed each leader that way on purpose, but we still need to put intentional effort into bringing humility to our confidence or confidence to our humility. You can watch the video of today's podcast here. Check out some other posts and videos I've shared on this important topic here. This discussion was based on back-to-back chapters in my book Shepherd Leadership. You can find out more and pick up a copy here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎
The one Jesus called the greatest prophet who ever lived had a resume that probably wouldn't have gotten anyone's attention today. You can get more information about Shepherd Leadership here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎
I created an alter-ego superhero to help me learn to add humility to my naturally confident leadership style. Watch the video of this interview here. Check out a little more of the origins of Plunger Man here You can see the animated story of Plunger Man here And if you would like to watch my full interview on the Leading From Alignment podcast, that is located here You can also check out more of my book Shepherd Leadership by clicking here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎
One survey reports that 90 percent of church leaders are experiencing feelings of burnout. This doesn't make for healthy churches! Here are some helpful ideas I shared on a recent podcast interview with Kyle Willis. In my book Shepherd Leadership, I have a section of five chapters where I talk about the example that Jesus set for us to be mentally, physically, spiritually, and emotionally healthy. I encourage you to check out this book for yourself. If I can be of help to you, I'd love to talk with you more. Please get in touch with me! ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎
On the Thriving In Ministry podcast, Kyle Willis and I talk about the different kinds of rest that each part of our life requires. In my book Shepherd Leadership, I take five chapters to unpack how we can improve our health in all four of these areas. I encourage you to check it out by clicking here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎
My book gets 5-star reviews even from business leaders. You can find my series of posts on godly leadership by clicking here. The special offer I have for pastors is found by clicking here.
Have pastors put too much emphasis on preaching good sermons? Perhaps it's better to ask: What is the purpose of a sermon? Check out the video version of this podcast by clicking here. If you are a pastor (or if you really want to encourage your pastor), I've got a super-special deal on my book Shepherd Leadership. Check it out by clicking here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎
The tension between a leader's humility and a leader's confidence is vital for leadership success. Check out the proactive steps you can take. To watch the video of this interview, please click here. I have a special offer just for pastors (and for those who love their pastor). For just $12 I will send you an autographed copy of my book and a download link to get the audiobook of Shepherd Leadership free of charge. All you need to do is complete this form and I'll have the materials right out to you. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎
John the Baptist shows us the key to keeping our confidence and humility balanced so that God can continue to use us for His glory. I wrote about this tension between confidence and humility in my book Shepherd Leadership. This was also a topic of conversation in two interviews I did, which you can find here and here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎
God made His leaders unique and unbalanced on purpose. Do you know what your purpose is? Are you allowing God to use your uniqueness to enhance your leadership? Here are some thoughts that I shared with a group of pastors who are using my book “Shepherd Leadership” as a book study. To watch the video of this training session, please click here. If you would like me to join your team in a similar discussion of Shepherd Leadership, please get in touch with me. Shepherd Leadership is available in print or ebook, and in audiobook through either Audible or Apple. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎
Message from Dan Yacoviello on Jul 31, 2022